Welcome to the Bernat
Mystery Afghan Crochet-Along!
A Crochet-Along (or CAL for short) is simply a group of crocheters all working on the same project at the same time. That way you always have lots of support, inspiration and help from a like-minded group of people if you run into any problems. My name is Laura and I’ll be your host. Each week I’ll be introducing a new clue (part of the pattern) and providing tutorials and helpful tips and tricks.
Every week between now and December 1 we’ll post a clue here on the blog. As you work through the clues an afghan square will appear on your hook – it’s almost like magic. Clues will only appear here on the Bernat blog so tune in each Wednesday to get all the clues you need to complete your mystery afghan. Note – you don’t need to register in advance to participate. Just come by and let us know how you’re doing in the comments. If you have trouble, there will be other folks out there happy to help!
When your afghan is finished, send a photo of it to us (either through email or regular mail) to enter our draw. The winner is selected by random draw. The winner will receive the yarn and pattern to make the Bernat afghan of their choice. For details on the contest and rules, visit http://bernat.com/contestrules/
You’ll need the following materials to complete your afghan:
Bernat Softee Chunky (100g / 3.5oz; 164/180 yds)
Contrast A – We used Natural (39008) – 6 balls
Contrast B – We used Forest (39243) – 2 balls
Contrast C – We used Topaz (39514) – 2 balls
Contrast D – We used Lavender (39307) – 2 balls
Contrast E – We used Fern (39222) – 7 balls
You need a 6mm (U.S. J or 10) crochet hook, or size needed to obtain the pattern gauge of 11 sc and 12 rows.
Of course you don’t have to use the same colors that we do. Choose colors that match/coordinate with your decor or just colours that appeal to you in combination.
And if you don’t have a lot of crochet experience you needn’t worry. The clues range from beginner to easy level and progress in difficulty each week. This will allow you to build on the knowledge you’ve gained in previous weeks. What a great opportunity to expand your skills while creating a useful and beautiful item!
If you have any questions about the afghan, the requirements, the contest, or anything at all, please take a look at our FAQ– it answers lots of those questions. If you still have a question, email Crochetalong@bernat.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
I’ll meet you here next Wednesday with our first clue and first tutorial.
Happy crocheting!
Laura
Hi Laura! So excited about the first clue! Can’t wait til next week.
I’m joining.
I am going to join too! Not sure about this posting stuff but will do my best.
I would love to crochet alonge, but the entire afghan will take 19 balls = approx $60–a little too pricey Susan
COUPONS!!! I used Joann’s 40% off coupons – had 6 of them during Coupon Commotion I think LoL AND since they’re selection was very poor in the store I Joann.com’d rcvg 30% off my whole order. AND thru an online site I’ll even get 5% back from that too! Making my blanket apprx $42 (yes tax included)
Where can I get coupons or code to order yarn. I didn’t think I would have time to do this but surprise!!!!^_^
How to I log in to this blog???
I’d like to know that, too.
I too don’t know how to blog on this site. I can read all the comments, etc, but am quite baffled as to how to connect with others. Help!!
My yarn arrived today and I am so excited about this Mystery Afghan project. I have never done it before.
My yarn arrived on Saturday the 18th and I am exciting about starting. I can’t wait until tomorrow to get here. I ordered all the same colors you recommended and can’t wait to see how it will work up. I have been crocheting for over 45 years and look forward to working with everyone on this project. I hope to give it to my husband who is always cold!
What colors did you get or is that a secret? lol
go all the way to the bottom of the comments here and there is a place that says “Leave a reply” or under each persons comment is the underlined word ‘reply’ in red – just click on it and you are on your way!
I am concerned about being able to blog. I am a novice with computers.
I’m ready to begin too!
I can do reply, but have not clue how to register to start a blog = since you did, perhaps you can assist. Thanks in advance.
go all the way to the bottom of the comments here and there is a place that says “Leave a reply” or under each persons comment is the underlined word ‘reply’ in red – just click on it and you are on your way!
I love this concept! I can do a little each week and have an afghan by Christmas!
I changed the pattern for this square, it seemed a bit too simple. I did the sc in the back loop only, and criss-crossed the dc. The result is rows of x’s with a ridge on top. It looks really neat!
I’d like to be in on the afgan project! Can’t wait until next week!
I can’t wait to get started!!
My yarn is ready to go. Send on that first clue!!!
I got my yarn in the mail today! I’m more of a knitter, but decided to try this project to develop my crochet skills. Looking forward to the first instructions next week!
I got my yarn in the mail today too! I’m very excited about the mystery afghan. It won’t be too long before we can get started.
Me too Robin. I have been knitting for about a year and loving new challenges like learning to crochet. I think this project will take us frombeginner to advance quick!
I got my yarn in the mail today for the Mystery Afghan. I ordered the exact colors that were listed in the insructions. The yarn is so soft and beautiful! I am so excited and cannot wait to get started on this project. I love a challenge and this will most definately be one!
It says “pattern gauge of 11 sc and 12 rows”, does this equal 4″? Got my yarn yesterday, will be fun!
That right, it’s 11sc and 12 rows in 4 inches.
I am left handed and I want to make sure there isn’t any problem with me crocheting the Mystry Afghan. Also I don’t crochet tight and with a “J” hook my sample was only about half the size it needed to be….. HELP
I assume you’re using Bernat Softee Chunky yarn? I don’t know why your gauge swatch would be so small with a J hook if you don’t crochet tightly, so that’s the only thing I can think of. Left-handed shouldn’t matter. Maybe try again with a K or even L hook.
I am a “lefty” too. The only problem I have ever had is doing color work…it is on the back side of the work!
I have never been able to obtain the gauge suggested. When I have the correct number for height, the width is not within the gauge, so I always work width and add extra or less for height. Suggestions?
I can’t afford to do this project right now but am sending the pattern to my work email so i can print them off and will hopefully be able to start by end of Oct. Good luck everyone with your projects.
I got my yarn yesterday. I bought enough to make two afghans. One is in a Red, White & Blue theme and the other in the colors of my niece’s decor. I am so excited! This yarn is so soft and it wil be the first time that I have participated in something like this. I will be trying for my Master Crochet Certificate this winter and thought this would be a good project to practice a variety of stitches! Why do we have to wait another week… it will seem like a month because of my excitement. Time pass quickly so we can start!
Wow, Master Crochet Certificate …what’s that all about….that sounds very exciting….
yes please explain this how do you do that and what do you have to do to do that and what/how do you climb up the ladder to do that.
I have completed the crochet masters workbook, waiting for the review. Scared, haven’t been “graded” in years! Check out Crochet Guild Of America’s website.
would love to know more about the master crochet certificate and how to get one
What is a master crochet certificate, and what do you do to earn one? Sounds very interesting! I cannot wait til we start our project! I have been waiting for a month at least!
I never thought of patriotic colors for this, but now that you mention it, I think that is going to look great!!!! Nice choice, Dia.
I hope you get your Certificate. Good Luck!!
Hi, I’m using a red, white and blue theme as well. I made a vow to use yarns in my stash only but HAD to participate in this, my first CAL, so purchased 2 balls of Faded Denim for a fifth color. My other colors (from my stash. . .really!) are Berry Red, New Denim Heather, Grey Heather & White. Do you have colors other than red, white & blue. If so, I’m curious what you chose. It will be fun to see how these turn out.
My yarn arrived today and i’m ready to start.
Haven’t received my yarn yet hoping it will come in soon !!
This will be my first Crochet-Along looking forward to beginning.
Thanks
Since I am a left-handed crochet-er I am hoping there are no swirls. I go around clockwise and right handers go counterclockwise. I have to read swirl patterns backwards (sort of). Looking forward to new designs as we progress along.
Yarn has been shipped (Monday) and I’m excited as well. However, your question regarding lefties has me a bit concerned as well since I’m a leftie.
Anyone heard/know anything about lefties? I did not see anything on the first blog so I did not think about this.
google crochet lessons for lefties and you’ll find sites. There are sites with videos on how to’s
I’m a leftie as well, hope we won’t have any problems!
I’m a lefty too…..never had any past problems following patterns…hopefully all will go well.
I’m also left-handed and have never had a problem. I’ve been crocheting for more than 30 years. I know some people talk about having to reverse things in the pattern, but I’ve always just followed the directions exactly as written and never had any problems. However, I don’t worry about which direction a spiral goes as long as it makes a spiral. I’ve never done a project where the direction of a twist or spiral was important as long as you made all of them the same. Unless you have a picture from the pattern pinned to the finished project, who’s going to know if they look exactly alike? I like to think of minor differences as putting my personal touch on the design.
Lefties unite!
My yarn just came in today and I am soooo excited!! This is the first CAL I’ve done too. I picked my own colors and I think (hope!) it’ll be great!
My first CAL also, and I picked my own colors too…after I got home I started getting nervous about that choice, hopefully it turns out well! lol
)
I’m also looking forward to the mystery crochet-along. I can’t wait until my yarn gets here so I can get it all set up!
I’m supposed to receive my yarn by the end of the week. I can’t wait to start!
I don’t have this yarn but I do have other yarns and I need to use up my stash. i’m looking forward to trying to keep up with this. I might be slow because I have so many projects going at once.
I’m right there with you… I currently making slippers for friends and family and have two baby blankets that I’d like to make while starting this project… and also taking care of my little girl… should be an interesting couple of months!!
Sounds familiar! Baby clothes, afghans, etc. I am trying to use up scraps in one afghan. No theme, just…scrap! lol.
Don’t worry about being slow – the clues will remain up for quite some time.
My yarn came today!! I can’t wait to get started, I’ve never done anything like this before so I am very excited…I LOVE to crochet and I LOVE mysteries….combing the 2 and “it dun’t get any better n that!”
Just received my yarn – Sept 21 cannot come too soon!
Hi Laura
Just received my yarn by mail. Started doing my sample to see what gauge I get. I’m a knitter and I enjoyed the KAL last year that i’m willing to try the CAL. Can’t wait till next week
How are you doing a sample for gauge if you don’t have the pattern yet?
Make your gauge swatch in single croched…. Since the squares will be different patterns, the swatch couldn’t be made using a pattern.
Got my yarn in the mail today, so excited. It matches the colors in my living room perfest and all I changed was the lavendar to dark mauve
Just got my yarn in the mail!! WHOOT HOOT!!!! Wait I need to check my gauge.
So excited!! My yarn came today – really pretty colors. I was a little nervous about the lavender, as purple is not my favorite, but this is a beautiful shade. Can’t wait to get started
My yarn came today (yay!) and I’m looking forward to that first clue. Hope there’ll be the opportunity to post “progress shots”; I’d love to see what everyone else is doing and what colors they’re using.
JUST GOT MY YARN TODAY…..CAN’T WAIT TO START
Hi everyone!! It sounds like a lot of us just received our yarn and are ready to go. I NEED to finish a project and I’m excited to think this will be the one! I hope you will all help me with your encouragement. Let’s go…:)
Today was payday and Im hoping to order some of the yarn tomarow Ive chosen my colors, linen, lavender, dark mauve, aqua, and emerald, I think its going to turn out beautiful! Im so excited I just wish I had enough to get all of the yarn at once, but oh well it will give me something to look forward to in the mail. I’m so excited and I just hope my yarn gets to me in time and I will be able to start when everyone else does – Happy Crocheting everyone!
I’m also working with the emerald and dark mauve but I chose natural, walnut, and pumpkin for the rest. I’m going for jewel tone accents in a neutral main body. I just got the yarn yesterday and the colors are gorgeous together. Can’t wait to get started!
Good luck with getting your yarn in time. I ordered directly from Bernat and it took over 2 weeks before mine came
Hope yours comes much faster. Mine just came yesterday (Monday the 20th). I was starting to get worried I wouldn’t have it in time. Good luck!!!!!
I am eagerly awaiting my yarn delivery! It should be on my porch any day and I’m so excited to get back into crochetting after many many years! I hope it does not mess up my new knitting skills
I’ve recruited some friends to participate too and we’ll have our own monthly CAL meet ups!
My yarn came today. Love the colors and the feel. Taking it with me on vacation next week. Can’t wait to get started.
I got my yarn today….yay……… the colors i chose are natural, soft and dark taupe, redwood and rouge….can’t wait to get started……..happy crocheting everyone……..
My yarn arrived to day – waiting for me after a long, hard day at work. There’s something about the feel of yarn weaving through my fingers that makes all of the stress just go away. I am thrilled with the yarn and the colors. Like others, this is the first time I’ve done anything like this. I wonder how I’ll like it! Hello to all of the rest of you who are part of the adventure!
I love how you describe how crocheting makes you feel! I feel much the same way. Plus, I love making something beautiful out of a bunch of string. Hopefully the rest of my yarn will be here soon. One color was on backorder.
Just received my yarn, and am excited about this project. I love the colors, I just went with what the web site listed.
The first clue gets released on my birthday!! So excited to get started!! But I forgot to buy my yarn so I need to get on that!!
what a nice birthday “gift” for you!! happy birthday!
Happy early birthday!! Mine’s the 18th so it’s like my yarn today is my present to me
Can’t wait to get started!
Happy Birthday a bit in advance.
got my yarn yesterday….beautiful colors (I went with the suggested ones) really looking forward to getting started! Just finished up a charity afghan I had been working on for my church group. will check my gauge over the weekend and be all ready by 9/22.
My yarn is on route. Can’t wait for the delivery and to get started. I am just finishing up a blanket for my goddaughter’s new baby and starting a new blanket for my oldest daughter’s new baby who is due in December. I love keeping myself busy with all of these projects and seeing the end results.
Has anyone been able to find the “forest”. We have tried bernat’s, mary maxim’s and annie’s attic and everyone in backordered.Our local Joann’s does not carry this yarn. Any suggestions?
Lisa,
Google it. I found several sites that had it.
Lisa,
Try Herrschners – http://www.herrschners.com/product.aspx?sku=014411P&qid= The website shows they have Forest in stock. Good luck.
My yarn arrived today and I am so excited. I love the way the skeins look together.
Michaels Arts and Crafts regularly stocks all of the colors including Forest.
Sign me up, sounds like lots of fun!
Woo Hoo! The mailman pulled up the exact same time I came home from teaching a piano lesson. He walked up my driveway and handed me a big box of yarn! Yay!
Got my yarn 2 days ago too after work and was very excited! Already tried out a swatch and decided I needed to go down one crochet hook size. Anyone else have this problem? I must crochet looser? And how important is swatch and size with an afghan? I’ve never really worried about it before because I typically only make baby afghans but since this is in squares was wondering if I need to be more accurate……..advice anyone???
oops, gauge, not swatch. geez, I AM out of practice. LOL
Hi, Lois! I only worry about gauge when I’m making something to wear, or something that needs to fit just so. If you are consistent with your crochet, it shouldn’t matter what your gauge is – your afghan may be a little larger or smaller than the pattern – but it will still look fine.
Guage is less important on an afghan than on most items because an afghan can be any size. Unlike clothing, finished dimensions are not as important. The reason for making the swatch is that guage affects the amount of yarn the afghan takes. A tighter guage (for example 13 stiches and 14 rows) uses more yarn and and a looser guage (for example 9 stitches and 10 rows) uses less yarn. Since you don’t want to run out of yarn mid-project or buy a lot of extra yarn, having the same guage as the pattern means you will use about the same amount of yarn as listed for supplies.
The most important thing is that all your squares be the same size (or pretty close) – otherwise they won’t fit togethe neatly. Play around with hook sizes and read the tutorial for tips on yor problem.
I am REALLY confused!!!!! How can we make a sample square for gauge when we don’t even have the pattern?
Anyone have a tip for gauge? I was thinking about using a different yarn, but mine turned out to be that 11sc was to small but 12 rows was too tall…? I wasn’t sure the best way to correct that and I’m afraid that would happen if I used the suggested yarn as well.
I can’t wait to get started. See everyone next week. Have a good weekend.
I received my yarn in the mail today, and I can’t wait to get started!!
my yarn arrived last week too! can’t wait to start
This looks like so much fun. My friends and I are getting together Wednesday nights to work on our projects together. Tea, cakes, friends and crochet who could ask for a better “girl’s night”.
How neat! Sure wish I would have had enough time to do soemthing like that….enjoy your Wednesdays!
I’m jealous! I wish I could join you, but alas, the youth of my town would be so sad if I wasn’t at youth group to lead them. So I guess I crochet alone…lol!
Maybe you could teach all of them to crochet! It could fit into youth group somehow. Like the finished mystery afghan everyone makes could be a part of the benevolence pantry if you have one or be donated to a local charity. Not to mention learning how to crochet for some is a rather humbling experience =)
This will be the first KAL I have participated in. I am looking forward to this project.
I have my yarn eagerly waiting for next Wednesday! Have a great weekend every one!
Sounds like fun. Can’t wait to start.
This is such a great idea – can’t wait to get started!!
Yarn and hook are ready!!! I’m very happy to join you in this adventure!!
I am just finding out about this. So I guess I’m getting a late start. I hope it won’t be a problem getting caught up if necessary. I am ordering the needed materials today. This will also be my first time doing something like this. But, thought it would be fun.
4 days left to go!!! This is killing me! I can’t remember when I was so excited… the yarn is so soft and beautiful – I can’t wait!!!
Received my yarn today in my deployed location, chose to use the colors suggested and am soooo excited to get started. I can hardly wait until next Wednesday. I’m very curious to do this as I’ve never done anything like this before, I’ve actually only crocheted two things and the second one is just about done.
I got back from vacation yesterday and found my yarn on the front porch. It’s so pretty!
My yarn finally got here! couldn’t wait to open the box. I went off the wall with the colors (I usually get blues or greens) choose native ombre for one of the colors with 4 complmenting solids. The minute I saw the colors I knew who I would make it for. Is their anyone in Island county, Wa state who would like to talk or get together and work on this project?
My yarn arrived today! This should be fun, looking forward to the first clue! I’m a beginner and hope to be able to keep up!
Hi everyone…..I live in Ireland and love to crochet….looking forward to starting this…..Mary Maxim sends yarn international so I have my yarn and I am ready to go….can’t wait until wed. Good Luck all!!!!!!!!!
Ok, my yarn came this week. I am ready for next Wednesday to come. I am ready to see what this afghan will be. Let’s start crocheting…
I just finished my gauge swatch. This yarn is great to work with! And a J hook worked for me. I can’t wait until the first clue.
I just got my wool yesterday! I substituted Teal for the Lavendar and I am pretty excited for Wednesday. Oh yeah and I’m pretty new to crochet
Here it goes…
Can someone tell me how many skeins of yarn was purchase. The instructions speak of balls. I didn’t wan to purchase too much. For example, natural stated 6 balls are needed. What did you purchase?
A ball is just yarn/wool that is wound so that it is easy to pull out. No rewinding as with some skiens of yarn.
If you are using a different yarn,I would suggest looking at the length in metres or yards of your skien and compare it to the length of the ball of the suggested yarn.
If the thickness of the yarn is the same, I would then buy the number of skiens that would give me the correct number of metres or yards for the equivalents balls.
Balls and skeins are often used interchangably in patterns. It indicates that the yarn has been rolled for to make it easier to work with. Sometimes you will also see the word “hank” which simply means the yarn has not been rolled and you will have to ball it yourself. When buying yarn there is no difference between any of these terms. What is important is that the yarn type (ex. Chunky, Baby, etc.), total weight, and total yardage (if given) is the same as the pattern. Otherwise your finshed project will be a different size or you might run out of yarn or buy too much. For this project, you just need to buy the amounts listed.
Thanks so much for explaining. It is much appreciated.
Haven’t received my yarn yet. Hope it arrives in time for the first clue. This is my first time being part of a group project. Looking forward to helpful hints.
My sister and I are doing this together, so it will be like a competition to see who gets it completed first. She is more of a crocheter, but I am a knitter. My mother taught me how to crochet 35-40 years ago, so I am hoping it is like riding a bike – the skills come back to me quickly.
I hope it will be like a bike for you also! I am glad you will have a friend to do it with, how nice!
still waiting for mine!
didn’t received my order yet.hope I’ll received before Wednesday so that I can start on September 22nd.
I hope so also!
Sign me up!
Got my yarn & I am ready to rock & roll. I really like the feel of it. I am going to make this for my son who wants a “really soft” afghan, so I went with more guy colors.. 2 shades of gray, white, black & fern. I think it is going to be beautiful (and manly, of course. no self respecting 20 year old guy wants a girlie afghan). Now my only problem is finishing the afgan I am working on by Wednesday. Somehow I don’t think that’s going to happen so I guess I will be behind. Sigh. So many projects. So little time.
I have a question about gauge. Using the J hook, my swatch is a little small, but with the K hook, it’s slightly oversized. Which is better? Since I want the afghan to be large enough, I was leaning toward using the K hook. My question is…will I have enough yarn if the afghan is slightly larger?
I am going with the I hook. MIne was larger than it was supposed to be with J. Do you crochet pretty tight? I get all confused too and wanted to make sure the measurements were as accurate as i could get it……
I think you should have enough yarn with the larger hook provided the swatch isn’t more than 4 1/2 inches square. But make your decision based on which swatch liooks better.
We should all post our pictures, so we can see who we are blogging with.
i would like to post my pic….but not sure how to do that….
I am excited to do this. I was having a debate if i was going to have enough time to this, but ultimately the idea of endinf up with a mystery afghan has won out. Can’t wait to start.
I went with a varigated color as one of my main colors and then pulled all of my other colors from it to match. I hope it will turn our great.
Just received my yarn and am ready to go…
can’t wait either. i had gotton other yarn, but not sure. i may try it and get what this says to get. it was on sale that is why. anyway. can’t wait. never done this before. and i am not that good. hopefully there is help out there.
There’ll be lots of help!
I’m suppose to get my yarn today! I’ve never made an afghan before. It’s going to be a Christmas gift for the lady who taught me how to crochet. I just hope I have the stamina to see it through!
I’m trying to wait patiently for my yarn to arrive. After reading everyone’s blogs, waiting patiently is a little harder to do but the shipment is supposed to be on it’s way. In the meantime, I’ll continue working on the socks that I have started. (My family gives hand crafted socks to each other every year. It’s one of my favorite traditions!)
I’m in! I went out this weekend and found all the yarn except for 1 color. I am going to try and find it online! I can’t wait to start!
count me in. I can’t wait. Yarns all ready to go.
Hi, I am also so excited! I love to crochet! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us with the Mystery Afghan Project. I was reading the other posts and I can see everyone is happy & ready to begin this project. I was also surprised to see that most of you are ordering your yarn. How do we do this? I would love to have my yarn come to me. I live in the country & I have to go quite a ways to purchase yarn. I will check the site for this option. Happy Crocheting Everyone
I live in the country as well. The nearest yarn store (besides Walmart which doesn’t have much of a selection) is more than two and a half hours away. By the time I get there, shop, and get home, buying yarn at the store takes up most of the day. Fortunately, shopping online is really easy, as long as you have a credit card. For Bernat, just go to the top of this page and click on “our yarns”. Pick the yarn weight you want from the menu and it will take you to a page showing all their choices in that size. Pick the one you want and click on it. Now your page gives details about that particular yarn. If you don’t want it, just click next to see another choice. If you do, click the “buy online” button and you will be taken to the order form (also called the shopping cart). Mark the colors and amounts you want and click “add to cart”. You can add more items buy clicking “continue shopping”. When you are done click “proceed to checkout”. This is where you enter your address and credit card information. It will also ask you for an email address so that they can send you an order confirmation (receipt). When your yarn is shipped, Bernat sends you an email with a tracking number. If you go to the usps.com (the post office website), you can enter this number and find out where your shipment is and how close it is to being delivered. Since you live in the country, remember it will always take an extra day or two to get from your local post office to your house.
Hi Sue, Thank you, thank you, thank you! I will be ordering all my yarn this way from now on! Yes, my walmart here has a very limited selection. I will still check walmart’s markdown area because I’ve gotten some fantastic yarn bargains, but for everything else I will order from here. Have fun with the Mystery Afghan!! Debbie
There are other web sites to order yarn from also. I just type in the yarn name and color and the word purchase and google it. Several come up. There are a couple that take paypal which is handier than just a Credit card for me.
Still waiting for my yarn–Hope it arrives before Wed.!
Is it Wednesday yet? can’t wait to get started.
I got my yarn last week and can’t wait to start on Wednesday. I substitued wine for the lavender to match my living room. This is such a treat. I love the idea of a mystery afghan.
Can’t wait, only 2 days to go :~) Got most of the yarn an think this will be fun. Not sure I should post my picture ’cause I don’t want to scare anybody, haha.
Jean H
I am in
This is the first time doing a mystery project via a blog. This should be interesting and fun.
Yarns all ready to go. Going to try the gauge now. I can’t wait, two days…arrgh
Left Hooker, you missed “talk like a pirate day” by ONE DAY! (It was the 19th)
LOL
Any one know if the backordered ‘forest’ will be back in time for CAL? Really need that color to complete it to match my decor. Any suggestions of stores that might carry it?
Can’t wait for Wednesday to get started!
Yarn came today – can’t wait! Mainly a dishcloth knitter but have done a few afghans in crochet. The colors are amazing! How about a clue preview for us instant gratification types?
My husband recieved my yarn Friday while I was out of town! He says he didn’t touch it, but I am wondering why the box was open. Do you think the mailman did it?
. Anyway I can’t wait til Wednesday .
Have Yarn – Will Crochet
Got my yarn and I am ready! I chose Soft Taupe, Pale Antique Rose, Natural, Taupe Twists, and Tawny Twists. (I got three each of the twists instead of two to make sure I have enough.)
I gave my oldest daughter her first crochet lesson yesterday and I think she is going to join us on the CAL! I just wish she were closer to me so I can help her. She is in NC and I am in TX.
Can’t wait to get started!
May I suggest Youtube as a tutorial. Learned how to knit that way.
Received my yarn and am anxious to get started. I’ve never done anything like this before so am looking forward to my first blog experience. I’m a knitter so this will be nice to improve my crochet skills. But two more days?!!!!
The the instructions be available for print after they are posted? I was hoping to be able to work on mine while I wait for my kids to finish their lessons.
Sorry,
Let me rephrase that as a question.
Will the instructions be available to print after posting?
Pam, I would imagine if Bernat doesn’t have a print option, a simple copy and paste onto a word document might work. Then, you can print it out from there.
I will probably be working on the CAL while on my breaks at work so a print out copy would be helpful.
Wow, looks like Forest was very populer. I did find it at the kitting warehouse site.
Last fall, Bernat did a Mystery Knit-Along and each clue had a link to download a pdf. I expect they will do the same thing this time.
Just got my yarn today, the order was short the 2 forest greens, what should I do? No store near by that carry this yarn.HELP !!!! SUE
I got my yarn last week and I’m ready to go!
Got my yarn today except for the “forest” that’s backordered. It is soooo soft. I can’t wait to get started. I’m going to try to get my swatch done today.
Is it to late to join
It is NEVER too late to join!!!!
Welcome!
Got my yarn today and ready to rock!
Hi All! Got my yarn – all except forest. Can’t wait to get started
Got my yarn in the mail today – I am so excited about this – I have never done a crochet-along before.
really wished I would have read all info, and knew we did not have to use softee chunky, my order is still not here. I might have to make two
Have had my yarn now for a couple of weeks, and have been counting the days until the first clues come. Now I found out I have to be out of town on the 22nd and won’t be back until the weekend. Talk about luck!!!! Oh well, I’ll just be a few days later getting started.
My yarn arrived today and it is beautiful. Can’t wait to get started. My daughter is getting married this December, so it may be a surprise wedding gift. Hope I have the time to complete it!!
I got my yarn today – I love the colors I chose. I like autumnal/warm earthy colors and with these colors I am going to have a nice autumn-colored afghan – I chose Buff, Pumpkin, Rustic, Fern and Bronze. Can’t wait to get started!!
Also, I have a question – I usually crochet tighter and always use a larger hook than I need for a pattern. If I go even one larger, so as to make the afghan a little larger, will that work with the 19 skeins ordered or will I run short? And, if I do run short, is the pattern that specific that if I order yarn to complete it later, will any subtle changes in dye lot be that noticeable in the pattern?
Thanks!!!
Which size hook you use is not important. I usually have to use 1 or 2 hook sizes larger than called for in a pattern. What IS important is to make sure your swatch matches the specified guage (11 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches). In an earlier posting, someone from Bernat said that the squares could be a little larger (11 stitches and 12 rows = 4 1/2 inches) and there would still be enough yarn. However, if your guage is tighter (13 stitches and 14 rows = 4) you will use more yarn, risking the possibility of running short. I’m making my swatch tonight and will use whatever hook gives me the right guage, regardless of what size the pattern says.
OMG. I chose the same colors except instead of Buff I used a chocolate brown (can’t remember the real name). I hope you post a pic when finished.
Hi Belinda – nice to meet another autumnal-color lover. Warm Chocolate with those colors would look great as well, I would imagine. I hope you post a pic as well at the end .
Elaine
You’ll be OK!
Shoot, I thought it started today…..oh well, glad I came on here anyway, because I forgot to check my gauge….done! Well, I don’t know how fast I’ll be able to go, I’m a full time college student, full time Mom of a 7 and 4 yo, full time wife, full time caretaker of 3 cats and 1 dog, and a full time landscaper/caretaker of our 8 acres…..but I can’t wait to get started anyway!!! woohooo!
I’ve never done anything with so many colors….this is alot of yarn, should I roll them all into balls now, or do it as I go?
I have 2 cats and a dog, but have had many pets over the years (max was 4 cats, 3 dogs and a rabbit), each of whom had a different reaction to yarn. I’m going to suggest you consider what your pets do with yarn. If they like to play with it, steal it from your yarn basket, and bat it all around the house, I’d ball it as I needed it. If they ignore it, you can ball it all now. However, you don’t have to ball it at all. The Bernat skeins are all “center pull”. Just stick your finger in the open on either end and reach into the middle. Catch some of the yarn on your finger and pull it out. You will usually end up with a small “blob” that can easily be unrolled to find the end of the yarn. Start stitching with that and pull out more as you need it by tugging gently on the yarn coming out of the skein. This method has several advantages. The yarn stays cleaner because it is kept in the wrapper. If you drop it, it doesn’t roll acrooss the floor or under the furniture. It won’t roll of the table or bounce out of the basket while your working. And you don’t have to spend all that “stitching time” making the balls in the first place.
5 cats and a 4-yr-old great-granddaughter. I put all the yarn in Yarntainers…and still the newest kitten chewed my expensive sweater yarn in two last night. Love them still!
Teva, I just looked at the skeins again. One end of the yarn comes out of the wrapper and is tucked into the middle. Pull that back out (It will only be a few inches) and reach into the center from the other side of the skein.
Hi Teva,
There’s no need to roll them into balls. Find the end that has a piece of the yarn going into the center. Pull it out. Go to the other end and pull out some yarn from the center. It may come out in a bit of a clump or it might be near the other end piece of the yarn. Anyway, this way you have a center pull skien and no rolling.
If you are worried about pets playing with your yarn, or about dropping it and getting it dirty, I know a trick. Just put each ball of yarn into a zip-lock baggie. Cut a small hole in one corner of the bottom of the baggie and pass the yarn out of it. Even round balls of yarn won’t roll away in a baggie!
I have my yarn and I am looking forward to this. I have a hard time finishing afghans. I think this will help me complete this project.
After much debate, I decided on using the Bernat Satin again. I really loved the feel of this yarn and its ease of care. Since it will be going in the same room, probably the other end of the sofa, I decided to go with complimentary colours to my KAL afghan. I know it will be a bit smaller, but as for hook size/guage for an afghan I usually don’t fuss too much anyway. I just choose the one that gives me a fabric that I like the feel of. I made extra blocks to make my KAL afghan bigger anyway and maybe I will do the same for this one too, if possible. We will see how the mystery unfolds.
When this is done I will hopefully have a CAL at one end and a KAL at the other.
I can’t wait until tomrrow. I’m ready with my needle in my hand.
Yéééé!!!!! it’s tomorow!!! can’t wait… I’ll probably have some question cause i’m used to french pattern
Just received my yarn – I chose your colors. Really anxious to get started. This is my first crochet-along. Am really excited.
I’m jumping up and down like a frog in a box.
Does it get posted at 00:01am? American time or English? Can I log on at midnight my time and get going first??
BRING IT ON !!!
That would be great, right?! lol
)
Got my yarn last week and what a treat! I love the colours and I can’t wait to see them all come together.
‘see’ you all tomorrow!!
J:-)
Can not wait!!! Only 1 more day!!!
just wondering..will the pattern be posted after midnight tonight…after all that will be the 22nd. If so i can get it before I have to leave…just a thought.
Are we there yet? How many more hours? I can’t wait for the first clue! Hope I can sleep tonight.
i know…i was thinking on my way home from work that maybe the first clue would be early…but it wasn’t …..i don’t think i can sleep either…..:)
ok I don’t understand… how do I get the clue? I don’t see anything… help please.. I just got home from work and thought I should check the site… I am disappointed… please someone help me… aarrrgghh!! lol lol ok ok … I will calm down.
I woke up this morning early 4am. I tried to go back to sleep cause I have to get to work later on. I just laid there thinking about all I had to do until I remembered today is the day! I printed the 1st clue! It looks good! Simple, I can work with that. What are you thinking so far?
I have my yarn, made my gage swatch, is Wednesday yet?
This will be my first Crochet-a-long and in case you could not tell I am more than a little bit excited!
I have crocheted for 38 years.
I know all about gauge and swatches. But if we don’t know the stitches used yet how can you make a swatch to get the right gauge?
Whew! Got my yarn today. Can’t wait to get started.
Can’t find the fern colour. Anyone have any suggestions as to what other colour to use? I was thinking either a shade lighter or darker than the lavender or topaz.
Have my yarn.Can’t wait to get started.
Just found out my yarn isn’t going to be here for tomorrow
Guess I will just have to look at the clue tomorrow and wonder how its going to turn out. Hopefully will be here Friday
I did my gauge yesterday with a hook 6.50 hook and it was only 3″. Does that mean I crochet tight? I do find that my projects are always a few inches smaller than there supposed to be.
Also I usually have leftover yarn. Should I go up to a 8.00 hook or will I run out of wool?
Good luck to everyone, see you all tomorrow
I am so glad to see that I am not the only one who can’t wait until tomorrow! Can we use the International Date Line time? haha
Got my yarn, ready to go. Since I have no imagination when it comes to colors, just went along with the recommendations.
Kids think they will get it for Christmas…wrong!
I’m sitting patiently here in Long Beach California with bated breath waiting for 12:01 AM Wed. 9/22. So hoping that it’s going to be available right away. Light bulb, I just had a thought maybe it’s going to be eastern time instead of pacific time I’m checking at 9:01. All I can say is: open, open open!
I am so excited to get started,. My yarn is not here yet, but I can’t wait. This is the first project I am doing like this and I am just so pumped. Are we able to print out the clues?
Counting the hours and hugging my yarn!
Got my yarn in the mail today!!!!My hook is ready to go! Hurry up tomorrow…I can’t wait for you to get here!!!!
I’m in! Just have to get my yarn! Is Bernat going to have a sale for us last minute guys?
JanV
Very excited. At what time exactly will the directions be released? Eastern Standard? Pacific Standard? DST? Cmon, share so we will know.
The clues are posted Easten Standard Time
I am using the yarn that I have. In my stash.
Is really wishing this first “clue” will be posted when I wake up in the morning so i can print it then work on figuring it out. I am super excited.
Anxious to begin! On My Mark, . . . . Get Set . . . . Crochet!!!!!
Aw, do I have to wait!
My yarn is not scheduled for delivery until the 23rd!!! Oh, no!! Oh, well, will have to start then! And as luck would have it, I have to work this Saturday after working all week- Don’t they know I have a Mystery CAL to work on? LOL
Just got my yarn today and I’m READY!!! Gonna’ join my best girlfriend as we are each making our own afghans but working on our together! This is our first time, too!!!
Have my yarn, gauge is checked, ready to crochet….any possibility of getting the first clue a day early? :>)
oh wow… it’s only the 21st… I must have missed a day and thought it was the 22nd.. ok I feel like a crochet/knit junkie wanting a fix… sorry ladies.. and gents…
Have never done anything like this, but I am really looking forward to it! My yarn came yesterday and got me even more enthused>
ok so I’m glad I’m not the only one that’s really excited about this and I was wondering the same thing about the time, will it be posted right at midnight or do we have to wait till 9am, is it EST or pacific or what?!?!? ok just a little excited hehe
I ordered my yarn from Bernat, but the Forest color was not sent. I checked at JoAnn and Michael’s and neither of them had it either. Since I don’t know exactly what the Forest color looks like, I don’t know what substitute will look best with the original Crochet A Long colors.
Help!
Well…..I have the yarn, did my guage swatch and found that I will use a k hook instead of the j hook, and now I’m ready to go
I’m using dark taupe and aqua as the 2 main colors and the others are grass, lavendar, and rouge.
Ooohh! Your colors sound very pretty… can’t wait to see everyone’s different color choices and the final results. I chose black, lavendar, wine, grey, purple.
Well, it’s 2 am but I have my two squares made. I have 17 rows. How many rows does everyone else have to make the 8 in square.
I used a K hook and made 19 rows.
This is so much fun. Thinking about getting some different colors and making two afghans. I’m sure the clues will get harder, but maybe I can keep up.
I got 15 rows.
I used a “J” hook for 19 rows (9 double crochet and 10 single crochet) with the recommended yarn. For worsted, I used a “H” hook for 19 rows and made 6 inch squares. YEP, I’m making two at the same time!
I got up early just so I could get started before going to work! This is really fun!
Well….. Where is it? It’s Wednesday morning!!!!! I set my alarm early to get up and check!!! I can’t wait to get started!!!!
Got the 1st Clue! Not too hard. Even though I have crochet experience, the tutorial was helpful – very well done!
I received my yarn yesterday! The colors are beautiful… I went with what was suggested. I cannot wait to start but I am at work!! LOL! I haven’t done crochet in a long time so I am excited. Lets go!
Started on the 1st square… WOOT!!!
Forgot to add… have to post my excitement here ’cause hubby just looked at me weird when I was chanting “got the 1st clue” this morning. Important to note here… I AM NOT a morning person!!! Couldn’t wait to get back from taking the kids to school to get started!
My yarn arrived and I just printed the first clue. I can’t wait to get started. I have to check my gauge first and then I am on the way. I can’t wait to get home from work to start.
Have fun everyone!
HELP!!! I’ve already run into a problem! I’m an experienced crocheter, but I usually crochet “round” things so this is unexpected… the ch-3 end of my dc row has a noticeably bigger “space” than the other end when looking at the square. Any tips / suggestions?
If the space is too big try chain 2 instead of chain 3.
I did the same thing, I always ch 2 instead of 3
I too am not happy with the way the square is looking. I don’t like the space when you are too skip the first stitch. I don’t know if shortening the chain will fix the problem as the chain 3 acts as the first double crochet. Has anyone else found this problem?
Thanks guys! I tried ch-2 and it looked the same. Then, I did some internet searching and the swatches I saw all had the bigger space at one end, so I just went ahead and left it with ch-3. Maybe it’ll look ok when the squares are put together…
Just finished Clue #1… only problem… have to wait a whole week for #2!!! At least, at this pace, I think I might be able to keep up.. I was worried about getting behind. THIS IS FUN!!!
Finished one square ! I have a big space at one end too. Was wondering where every one lives. I am in Michigan, USA :~)
This is fun, for sure.
Jean H.
I’m in Michigan, too. Brighton.
Jean H., I live in Minnesota currently, but I am originally from Michigan. Are your trees changing colors too?
I’m in Brazil and I finished my 2 squares.
Now, I’m waiting for the next Wednesday…
I am in Saskatchewan, Canada.
Finished my 2 squares right away, and now waiting patiently for next Wednesday!
I live in Washington state!! Pacific NW. USA
I am about a mile from Lake Erie, half way between Toledo, Ohio and Detroit, Michigan!
I am in Northern Ontario Canada
I wasn’t sure how I was going to be able to FIND the clue since I’m not very familiar with blogging. But I did find it and am getting ready to start with the first clue AFTER I check my gauge.
This is my first cal, and I’m quite excited about it. I too am working on my swatch and wound up using a K hook. My width is a perfect 4 inches but my length is almost 1/4 inch less. Guess I will try the technique of making my stitches longer. The directions say sc stitches, but I assume it applies to dc stitches as well. I agree with the person that hates putting squares together, but I’ll give it a try. Love the colors!
For once my gauge was right on. Most of the time my width is ok but the length in too big. I was really excited that I was getting it right this time.
I finished my 2 squares too. What to do now? I’m thinking of making another one along with this one using up some of my stash. Just for fun and so I won’t be so impatient waiting on the next clue.
That’s a great idea. I always have so much yarn sitting around and I’m always looking for some way to use it.
That is a great idea . . . since I have finished my 2 squares, too, and can hardly wait for clue#2!! And I really do have so much scrap yarn sitting around, great way to use it up!
I still can’t find clue #1. Can anyone help me? I tried contacting Bernat, but no answer. I’d like to get started. Can anyone e-mail me the clue????Thanks.
This is my first time doing the Crochet-Along! I am so excited to get started and a little nervous at the same time. It seems like it will be a lot of fun.
I finished my first square and I’m starting on my second square.
I just finished the first squares a little while ago and I’m so excited to get on to the next clue. This is going to be so much fun.
I am going to try this out, too!
I finished my squares and ended up using the J hook, which was too small when I did my guage swatch.
Now I’m ready for the next clue!!!
Sue from ACT, Australia
Also just finished my first 2 squares. Is anyone else from the ACT doing this CAL.
It would be nice to have an experienced crocheter close for assistance if required.
Pingback: Bernat’s Mystery Afghan CAL.
Well, that was a pretty simple start. Both squares are done, the ends woven in, and blocked. I’m looking forward to the next clue – hope it’s a bit more challenging although I know it needs to be a level that beginners can cope with.
Please tell me the easiest way to block the squares . . .
How did you do it?
Hello! I live in Racine, WI. I finished my second square at work today during lunch, it really worked up fast. I can’t wait to see how it turns out and see everyone’s pictures when we are done! So much fun!
Got my 2 squares done. Can’t wait for the next clue.
I was wondering when the pattern was going to start, cause I got my yarn a week ago. I belong to a Knitter’s Group and I told some of them what I was going to be doing, so they are anxious to see the outcome – me too! Happy crocheting everyone!
Finished two blocks. Waiting patiently for next week. Left handed, following directions not an issue. Stitch 2 ch instead of 3, still a minor hole but not as big if had used 3 ch. I am going to assume stitching blocks together may help close the gaps.
I did ch 2 as well, I thought ch 3 left too big a hole a the edge. I also changed the pattern to sc blo, and crossed the dc’s. The result is a row of “x”s with a ridge on top. Looks really neat!
My two squares are done as well. I used gray heather. What colors did everyone else use? So excited for next clue!
I used grey heather for mine too! Great minds think alike
I used from my stash, so I am subbing as follows:
natural = grey heather
forest = rose pink
topaz = turquoise
lavender = plum
fern = peach
Hope those colors will work :O
I used White Bernat Chunky ’cause that was already in my stash. Purchased a few other colors but still need Forest, Topaz and Fern.
I started my first square yesterday. I had to order the forest color because none of the stores around me carried it and it was sold out on a lot of websites. I got lucky.
me encanta la idea, solo que no se ingles tratare de seguirles el paso aqui donde vivo (Guaymas Sonora Mexico) es dificil conseguir lana bernat tratare de hacerla muchas gracias por publicar esta interesante forma de tejer saludos.
HI All:
So excited about the mystery afghan. Crocheting is my sanity. I just finished a poncho for my 2 yr old neice using Bernat Baby yarn.
I want to be part of this project… Just order my yarn can’t wait to get started!
This is exciting…….I love to crochet, and after I had done the 2 squares, decided that I’ll do more. I went through my yarn and thought I could do one for each of my grandkids……..I love it!!!
I chose colours that reflect each of their personalities. What fun!!
Want to join the CAL group and have already done the first two squares. Come on Wednesday afternoon!
The Heavens opened up and the rain came down all night and all day but as the saying goes…”Neither Rain nor Snow nor Heat nor Gloom of night stays these couriers from their appointed rounds.” Standing on my porch drenched, Yarn package in hand Bless my Postman!! My Yarn has finally arrived!! YEA-WHOOOO!!!!! I can finally get started!!! It’s Monday and soon the Second clue will come, I must hurry….Gotta Go
I’m totally confused about the gauge. My sample gauge was fine but the pattern is not made up of single crochet stitches only like the sample gauge block, so my “block” looks like a rectangle. When I did the pattern,12 rows measured 6″. Can anyone tell me what the completed block (using the double crochet stitches in the pattern) ultimately is supposed to measure?
It should measure 8 x 8.. Mine came out to where I had a total of 7 DC rows, ending with a row of SC.
Basically, it was SC, DC, SC, SC, DC, SC, SC, DC.. etc. Ending with One row of SC, not two.
Hope that helps.
Hi Jeanne,
You are supposed to do as many rows as it takes to reach 8″, ending with a sc row.
Hope you get it all worked out. =)
I have never tried a mystery afghan before so I am looking forward to this… I will use colors that match my bedroom… pink, sage , white/ivory, and darker versions of those colors if I can get them. Got the first square done and am on the second one they work up quickly. Looking forward to clue #2
I’m going to do it too, and I’m going to have my grandson’s girlfriend do it too. She loves to knit so I’m going to teach her something else. Thanks for the opportunity to have a good time.
Oops! Didn’t know we were supposed to order our yarn…I just pulled from my stash. Can I still play?
Here’s a link to my blog post about this CAL. I plan to blog the progress every couple of weeks.
http://fruitloopgirlsbrainnoodles.blogspot.com/2010/09/mystery-c-l.html
I just pulled from my stash too, don’t worry. My first two squares are in royal blue. I have tons of royal blue and black left over from a previous project sooooo, I guess for the contrasts I will have to go with grays and lighter blues? Maybe a little red and white to spice things up? I have a tendency to be a tad rebellious!
I cry… I want crochet with your all the Mystery Afghan, but i don´t have so beautiful yarn…
I´m chronical ill and we must safe our money for our little family. And here in Germany, i don´t can buy so beautiful yarn. 
( I would spend my afghan to a hospital or an other social company.
Now i go to bed and dream from all your beautiful afghans. ;o)
Nice greets from Germany to you all
from Annika
I just found this project today, and would love to add this to another one of many I’m working on.
I am looking for a store in the area that handles the Softee Chunky yarn and so far – am not finding this.
I’ve always wanted to do a “Mystery” project…. so I think I’ll look forward to trying this. Great idea. Thank you!
bits of blessings…i live in a small rural area, i had to order my yarn from the internet
good luck 
BofB, I found my yarn @ Michaels. Also Herrschners mail order has it for $2.99 each. But no lavender. GL
I finally found a couple colors at Joann’s and the other three at Michaels. Each had different colors, and finally found some that will work.
Thanks for the help.
I made my first squares out of Denim ombre, not sure what I am going to use for the second ones, right now I am practicing them with some of the bernat super value, The local store that carries bernat does not have a good selection of the softee chunky yarn. They did not even have the natural. I guess I will have to go online and order from somewhere. But still this is lots of fun. Can’t wait to see what comes out next week.
Thanks to the folks at Bernat for putting on this project. This is a great idea and hope you will do more of this in the future.
I’ve always wanted to do a Mystery project – and glad to see one finally in crochet. The small size square will show others how to make new stitches, and then at the end you have a “sampler” afghan to give away for Christmas.
I’m doing mine in honor of my daughter that is currently serving overseas in the military. I love you baby & I’m so very proud of you! God bless you!
The yarn colors are:
Natural
Taupe
Teal
Denim Heather (light blue)
Faded Denim (dark blue)
Pingback: Mondays mean miscellany…and crafting.
okay, I have a Problem…I can’t get clue # 3…somethings wrong…it says that the link isn’t good. Is anyone else having this problem???? please Help!
It worked finally…YEA!!!!
I can’t get clue #3 either. Not sure whats wrong..
Hey, I think this is so much fun! Never worked on a project with so many people before. I like being a part of the CAL community. I can’t wait to get home and start on Clue #3!
Make 8 squares from clue #3? Really? 8?
This is great. I ordered my yarn, substituted some colors. A = natural, B = faded denim, C = denim heather, D = wine, E = grey heather. I have finished Clues #1 thru #4 and will start on Clue 5 tonight. It is interesting trying to guess what the final product will look like. Each evening I sit in my bed with yarn all around me watching TV and crocheting. My faithful cat, Tabby, is always there to help. She watches to make sure that the yarn is flowing freely and when she thinks it is a little too fast she will put her paw on the yarn or pick it up with her teeth. (This also is gets her some attention.) I am sure she will help on Clue #5 tonight.
Between me and my husband we’ve owned more MP3 players over the years than I can count, including Sansas, iRivers, iPods (classic & touch), the Ibiza Rhapsody, etc. But, the last few years I’ve settled down to one line of players. Why? Because I was happy to discover how well-designed and fun to use the underappreciated (and widely mocked) Zunes are.
I downloaded the Clue #1 and almost completed it while we were traveling. Of course, it got lost somewhere between Texas and Mississippi (home). How do I get another copy of the pattern? New to blogging, so be kind.
http://www.bernat.com/cal2010intro/1xyfke/CrochetAlong_Clue1.pdf
can someone help! I am crocheting the border on my afghan and I am very happy with it. the problem I’m having is all the little endings that show even tho I weaved the ends in and crocheted over others. I hope someone is still listening and can help! thanks
Yes I still read the posts…As for the ends, have you read the area where she discusses how to tuck them in? It is in the finishing, I think clue # 10. What I do is weave them in and then back over, in the oppisite direction and make sure I stop where it is a tight group of stitches, I tug on it to make sure it is not moving and then I put some Frey Check (a type of glue) on under those stitches and then cut. Some have suggested it may need to be sew down with some matching thread. Hope this helps you and enjoy your blanket…
I have the best luck with woven ends in both knitting and crochet, if I double them back on the original path or near it … this seems to ensure that the stretch of the material doesen’t seem to allow the end to reappear … in knitting I tend to go on the diagonal, (as in the toe of a sock) and in crochet try to find a path where the tail and the return can be hidden. Hope this helps!
Has Bernat announced the winner of the Crochet Along Mystery Afghan? I’m curious on which Afghan won.
Not yet Denise, it will be sent out in tomorrow’s newsletter and posted on the bernat.com site.
I thought that there was a new clue starting January 15. Am I wrong? When does it start?
It’s Feb 15th, and you’ll find the clues on the Bernat Forums
Please excuse my naive questions. I would very much like to join the knit along. How do you know how much yarn to purchase? I would like to take advantage of your current discount and want to work on my gauge so I am ready to “dive in” on the 15th. Will all of the colors in the palette be needed?
Thanks in advance for your help!
You’ll find everything you need about the colours, from number of balls to how to choose them, at our handy Color Tutorial! If you need any help with choices, there’s always a hand at the Bernat Forums.
Will there be videos on duing the crochet mystery afghan. I don’t know how to read the directions. I am a visual learner.
Thank you!
We’ll be releasing videos for every stitch and technique!
I’ll be away from a computer when the first clue is released. Will I still be able to read it after the 24th of February?
Yep, the clues will stay on the Bernat Forums for the duration of the KAL/CAL.
I actually took the time (really, it was to kill time waiting to start) to make gauge swatch. And it came out perfect on size 5 needles !! You could have blown me over with an extremely large feather !!!
The patterns that included in the CAL n KAL announcement are just examples right? The actually CAL will be different…
I am so excited about the cal, I’ve ordered my yarn and do anticipate for the clues to start.
i am so looking forward to the cal and the kal. i couldn’t decide which one to do, so have chosen yarn for both. Four years ago i left my job and we sold our home to move in with my mom to care for her, as she has alzheimers. I had hoped to share knitting and crocheting with her. She had taught me so many years ago. Well alzheimers has stolen her memory on how to knit and crochet, but she is still able to crochet very unusual shaped wash cloths. When she is frustrated, we tell her they are special because she made them. Well all this said, i look forward to sharing progress with new friends, and learning something new.
So excited to try both knit and crochet alongs for the first time online. One question tho..where can I find photo gallery of previous years kal and cal completed projects ?
hi bcmiller, so far I have found pictures of the previous cal and kal by going to the top of the page, right hand side, Catagories, “Mystery afghan crochet-along” -December 1, 2010
and “Mystery afghan knit- along” March listings 2010.
The afghans are beautiful, The pattern for the knit afghan can be found under free patterns, type in “Mystery afghan” under search.
Have fun searching.
I was encouraged to find in reading the blogs that I wasn’t the only one not to usually do a test guage. Glad I did, as I needed to go up in size of needle and hook.
I’m still trying to find the clues for this afghan. They aren’t as easy to find as the clues for 2011 which I made. Can anyone help me?