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Hellooo! I know, I'm sorry, I'm late again with my reveal, ever so sorry, a few reasons for it, that I won't go in to, bit boring to relate. Are you well? Happy? Full of beans? If you're only half full of beans, or running on empty, let me try and cheer you up with a bit of colour, colour, colour! I am, ahem, revealing my Little Squares Scarf today. I have, as with my blanket reveal, taken far too many photos and not been able to choose between any of them, hence the profusion of mosaics.
Here goes!
My 'Little Squares Scarf", started about a month ago, with this post. In last month's Country Living magazine (U.K. version), I spotted a scarf by a designer called Sophie Digard. Her beautiful scarf costs £200, and my pocket isn't that deep, so I came to the conclusion that I'd make my own version, inspired by Sophie Digard's scarf.
Here you go, one whole entire scarf. Made up of precisely 248 little squares. That sounds a lot doesn't it? I was surprised when I counted. Hugo didn't believe me, so he counted for himself, and came up with the same number, 248. Because they're so quick to make, (you can easily do fifeteen squares in an evening, sitting infront of the t.v.), the scarf seemed relatively fast to make.
I measured the length, and it's 68.5 inches/175cm long. Might be a little too long for some people's tastes, which would be great for you if you were making this scarf yourself, because you wouldn't need to make so many squares!
I have done a 'visual' list of the yarns I used, which I shall put at the end of this post.
This scarf was all about the colours. It was such a pleasure to start sewing all the squares together, such fun. Would you like to see me wearing the scarf? Yes? O.k. here you go.
It's a cosy little number, this scarf, feels a little like wearing a ruff.
I also feel like I'm wearing a rainbow, which makes me feel happy.
I did say I took loads of photos didn't I?!
And that I couldn't choose between them?! I do love taking the photographs, I got to inspect my handywork, and all that colour. I didn't want to stop looking at all that colour!
When I was sewing the scarf up, I left the outer squares unsewn on all the sides except one, to create the ruffle effect. At the corners, I just sewed one corner of the square into the gap. It gives quite a dramatic effect when it's on, rather than just having straight sides. (I suppose you could have straight sides, and then do a border round the edge of the whole scarf).
I know I could have crocheted the squares together as I went, and the reason I didn't, is because I like the straight edge you get with each little block, which you don't get if you join as you go. Plus, deciding which colour was to sit next to which was something I wanted to do after I'd done all the crocheting. Maybe next time I'll join as I go................ It would be easier and quicker I suppose. I also like to sew the ends in on each little square as I go along, then that's done, dusted and not to be worried about.
Right, now for my 'visual list' of yarns.
One ball of each colour:
There are a couple of colours missing, of which I'm not too sure of their makes and colour numbers. This is because I used some yarn from balls I had already started on for previous projects, and not labelled. Sorry about that, but you do have the majority of colours I used. I think that if you wanted to make this scarf yourself, and the thought of buying all those different balls of wool too much, well, some of my colours are very similar to each other. Most of the yarns are gorgeously soft, but some are pure wool, just to get the colours I wanted, and when they're mixed in, the wool squares are barely noticeable to the touch.
When I joined my squares, I used an invisible seam method. I've just had a look for a demonstration on you-tube, and I've found that the way I've done it is different to how others have demonstrated. So when I return from my holiday in two weeks, I'll do a step-by-step demonstration for you. I'll also show you how I did my squares, which are easy-peasy!
So yes, I'm off on holiday on Saturday! I won't be blogging tomorrow, I've left everything till last minute, plus, I need to work, so I think I should let this be my last post before going away, something nice and colourful to look at while I'm away. Hugo and I are off to visit my parents in sunny Spain. We are looking forward to it enormously, I feel I'm postponing the arrival of Autumn by going away to a sunny climate, yipee! We're away for ten days, but you know how it is when you return from holiday? Getting back into the swing of things and all that, so I'm just going to round it off to two weeks not blogging, back on the Monday after. Take care, dear reader, I'll miss our little chats. Love Vanessa xxx
SO lovely! Like wearing all the colors of a gelato stand.
Posted by: katie | September 10, 2009 at 09:08 PM
It's definitely like you are wearing a rainbow! Fantastic scarf. My favourite photos is your loooooong photo, it's ace.
have a lovely holiday xxx
Posted by: Heather | September 10, 2009 at 09:14 PM
Your scarf is amazing,hope you have (had) a wonderful time in Spain.
Sue xx
Posted by: sue | September 10, 2009 at 09:18 PM
The scarf is lovely. I like the way the edges curl up. Enjoy your holiday in Spain, I will miss my daily does of colour and cheer.
Posted by: Jacqueline | September 10, 2009 at 09:22 PM
What a gorgeous scarf!! No wonder the one in Country Living costs £200 - there is alot of work in your scarf and the colours are fab. Enjoy your holiday - will look forward to reading your instructions on making the squares.
Posted by: Janet | September 10, 2009 at 09:54 PM
Vanessa, it is gorgeous. I am in awe!
♥
Posted by: Martha | September 10, 2009 at 09:56 PM
Wow! the scarf is fantastic!
Well worth the wait for the big reveal :)
Have a great time in Spain, I'll be looking forward to a tour of the real Spain when you return!
Posted by: Jaki | September 10, 2009 at 10:13 PM
Your scarf is just fabulos - I love it and wish it was mine!!!!
Have a wonderful holiday - hope you're taking some yarn with you???
Jane x
Posted by: jane smallcombe | September 10, 2009 at 10:26 PM
It's gorgeous! Well done.
Posted by: Kleinzonetje | September 10, 2009 at 10:33 PM
It's gorgeous!!! Wow!!
Have a wonderful holiday in beautiful Spain!
Anna-Karin xxx
Posted by: Anna-Karin, Sweden | September 10, 2009 at 10:39 PM
Absolutely fabulous! You'll turn heads wherever you go in that beautiful scarf. Enjoy Spain and the sunshine.
Posted by: Marie | September 10, 2009 at 10:45 PM
Love, love, love. Love the colors, love the ruffled edge and love how it looks on.
Have a fantastic holiday!
Posted by: Emily | September 10, 2009 at 10:47 PM
What a glorious sight, I love it, you are so very clever. I wish I could make something only as half as pretty. I have really enjoyed visiting you, apologies I haven't been for a little while, Occasionally I need little Bloggy holidays to recharge my batteries.
Amazing coincidence with the helicopter post. Only today we had two land a stones throw from my home, they are so loud aren't they.
Have a funtastic and relaxing holiday, my, I wish I was a coming with you :)
Hugs
X
Posted by: Mary Poppins | September 10, 2009 at 10:53 PM
Have a great time in Spain! Are you going to do more little paintings?
Also love the scarf, with your face peeping over the rainbow! Lovely!
Posted by: Gemma | September 10, 2009 at 11:18 PM
It's so beautiful, and the ruffle effect is a fabulous idea! Enjoy your vacation in sunny Spain - I can't wait to see what color-inspiration you bring back from there.
Posted by: Laura | September 10, 2009 at 11:24 PM
wow, it is gorgeous! wearing a rainbow is definitely the way to dress! i got a big tipsy looking at your color/design boards - what a lot of work is there. i will look forward to the project demonstration, as i think i'll make a wee version for our girl for christmas! thank you, thank you!
have a marvelous holiday!
Posted by: annri | September 11, 2009 at 01:46 AM
Oh, My ! ! ! ! Those flippity-flip edges, yes, with the over lapping little squares. The positively gorgeous color goes on and on f o r e v e r
I am Irish Green with envy.
AND, thanks you for the show-stopping on-the-scene live coverage of the unexpected visitor on main street UK
Thanks for the uplifting posts I needed that
Posted by: Gerry Hook | September 11, 2009 at 02:47 AM
Beautiful as ever! It's nice to get to see what you look like too.
Posted by: Nicola | September 11, 2009 at 06:35 AM
Your scarf is beautiful and will make returning to crisper weather all the better VAnessa. I always prefer it when yarns have names instead of just having a code don't you? Have a great time x
Posted by: Pipany | September 11, 2009 at 07:13 AM
Magnifico, clever clogs!
Enjoy Spain dear Vanessa, you sure deserve it!
Spring is arriving in New Zealand and today my sisters and I sorted our Christmas celebrations which heralds the arrival of Summer - pretty much.
Special thanks for your colour bursts in what has been a particularly dismal Winter for me.
LOVE what you give to the world (and me personally, because after all it is me that you write to isn't it - Dear Reader, that would be me?!)
Safe travels and fun in the sun Dear Writer and Colour Magician,
Sarah x
Posted by: Sarah | September 11, 2009 at 08:13 AM
Pretty, pretty, pretty!!!! The ruffles are just scrumptious. I still haven't mastered the art of crochet - just the art of loose knots - you have just spurred me on. Thank you. Have a wonderful trip.
Posted by: Cat | September 11, 2009 at 08:32 AM
Wow, so gorgeous! It'll certainly cheer up those gloomy Winter days ahead.
Deb x
Posted by: Deborah | September 11, 2009 at 09:06 AM
How fabulous it is and it looks so wonderful on - I very much like the ruffley edge you created. Happy holidays and how lovely to have your autumn scarf all ready from when you return from extending summer :)
Posted by: Sarah | September 11, 2009 at 09:09 AM
Absolutely love the scarf! You must be so pleased!! And keep the photos coming, I don't think there are ever too many, all those colours are just gorgeous! Have a great holiday, and please, pretty please, can you bring some heat and sun back for us? Lou x
Posted by: PetitFiloux | September 11, 2009 at 09:13 AM
Most impressive! - I bet you won't be taking your scarf with you to Spain! What will you do whilst you are away I wonder?
Have a super time.
CKx
Posted by: Calico Kate | September 11, 2009 at 10:07 AM
IT IS OFFICIALLY MY FAVOURITE SCARf!
You are so brilliant, well done!
Have a gorgeous hols, see you when you get back,
Love Sarah x
Posted by: Sarah - Jane down the lane | September 11, 2009 at 10:31 AM
Lovely scarf, I particularly like the way you've made the edges ruffle, plus the amazingly large selection of colours, must have been a lot of fun. Have a fab holiday, with maybe a little crafting? Will miss your bright and happy posts.
Posted by: Jennyff | September 11, 2009 at 10:45 AM
Wow, its very nice! lots of colours!
Posted by: maesca | September 11, 2009 at 11:56 AM
It is perfect and beautiful and lovely and....
Bravo - I love it!!
Have a lovely holiday,
Nina x
ps. I'm more on the side of a Doctor Who style scarf in 'the longer the better' - Tom Baker as Doc.Who that is! N xox
Posted by: Nina - Tabiboo | September 11, 2009 at 12:31 PM
love the scarf it is great well done! have a good time in spain :o)
Posted by: Naomi Rainford | September 11, 2009 at 12:55 PM
Wonderful! I couldn't even read it in my google reader, I had to see it on the real page! It look fabulous! I love the ruffly edge, and all the tiny-ness together. Great job!
Posted by: elizabeth of course | September 11, 2009 at 01:16 PM
Worth the wait Vanessa, and truly beautiful. I do love the idea of leaving the edge squares free, it gives a lovely soft effect. Thanks so much for posting the list of colours and manufacturers. This gives me a starting point for my next project. (After the patchwork bag, the knitted sweater, the crochet throw...)
Have a wonderful, wonderful holiday. I shall miss dropping by over the next couple of weeks!
Penny x
Posted by: penny | September 11, 2009 at 01:41 PM
How could you NOT feel happy wearing that beautiful scarf, it's really, really lovely!
Posted by: Pippa | September 11, 2009 at 02:16 PM
Wow , I can't believe my eyes , this turned out so gorgeous !
Have a wonderful holiday in Spain!
:)trudette
Posted by: trudette | September 11, 2009 at 02:16 PM
I'm going to try this pattern myself. Good thinking on leaving the edges unsewn. I love the way that looks when worn! I'm adding this scarf to my project list! Thank you!
Posted by: KK | September 11, 2009 at 02:18 PM
Bet you don't need that lovely scarf in sunn spain. Happy Holiday V x
Posted by: lucy | September 11, 2009 at 03:25 PM
I LOVE it! I love the way you finished the edges...it really gives it that special 'something.' And I adore your shade card!
Have a great time in Spain! I'll await your post! :)
Posted by: Erica K | September 11, 2009 at 03:54 PM
'Wearing a rainbow' - love it!
Posted by: Ali | September 11, 2009 at 05:04 PM
you are just incredible!! THe scarf is completely fabulous but man alive the way you indexed the wool is amazing. You win - you are the queen of crochet!!
Posted by: Geraldine O'Leary | September 11, 2009 at 05:09 PM
Your scarf is beautiful!
Have a great weekend
Anna x
Posted by: Anna | September 11, 2009 at 06:10 PM
the scarf is just fabulous - such a feast of colour -loving the idea of wearing a rainbow.
Have a wonderful time in sunny Spain - what a great time to go. Shall miss your colourful posts while you are away, but will think of you lapping up the sunshine and bright colours and look forward to hearing all about it on your return. xx
Posted by: Julie | September 11, 2009 at 07:35 PM
Hi Vanessa, it is a very very very beautiful scarf, well done you!
I am going to miss reading you in the next 2 weeks. TWO weeks!!
Have a wonderful time under the sun!
Isabelle
Posted by: Isabelle (France) | September 11, 2009 at 07:49 PM
absolutely beautiful....have a fab holiday and thanks for sharing the wool details, its always something i like to know and so few people share x
Posted by: elsy | September 11, 2009 at 07:58 PM
Your scarf is gorgeous, congratulations.
Have a lovely holiday
Posted by: Karoline | September 11, 2009 at 08:02 PM
Absolutely perfect! Have a lovely holiday in Spain.
Posted by: Lorraine | September 11, 2009 at 08:57 PM
Oh it's beautiful..and it looks fabulous on you. Have a lovely time in the sun.
Posted by: Bee | September 11, 2009 at 09:16 PM
Have a lovely holiday!!
Your scarf is fantastic!!! So colourful and cute!!!
Well done!
Posted by: Liz | September 12, 2009 at 10:21 AM
It's beautiful! I feel inspired!
Posted by: Catherine | September 12, 2009 at 08:21 PM
its lovely vanessa...well worth the wait and you are just wonderful ...displaying the colours and shade numbers so beauifully...did you wear it in the indian summer yesterday?
Posted by: Helen Lambert | September 13, 2009 at 08:40 AM
Congratulations, it's gorgeous!
Perhaps a tad too colourful for me as I'm addicted to black, but why not in (darker) shades of purple, red and pink?
Have a great holiday!
Posted by: mariebruxelles | September 14, 2009 at 08:59 AM
Love it!!
Posted by: Rachel | September 14, 2009 at 12:47 PM
All those colors....amazing!!!
Posted by: maureen | September 14, 2009 at 12:50 PM
Hello, just discovered you via Dorset Cereals... your blog is lovely... creative, colourful, witty, well-written and interesting... now I feel very depressed! My blog only got 40-something votes... think I'm going down the garden to eat worms. But I'll just bookmark you first :-)
Posted by: Sue | September 15, 2009 at 09:27 AM
I love it!! I like things that are different and no one else has! I'm new to your site and have really enjoyed it!!
Posted by: Shelly Muhlig | September 15, 2009 at 01:51 PM
Wonderful! So pretty and it looks ace on you! Lovely to see it build up and develop too! xxx
Posted by: The Curious Cat | September 15, 2009 at 01:52 PM
Hello there! LOVE your scarf! It's so colourful. I saw the Bigan yarn for the first time on Saturday at the 'I-Knit Weekender'in London. Their yarns are fabulous. Such great colours. Hope you have happy holiday in Spain.
Posted by: snoopydog | September 15, 2009 at 08:50 PM
Oh my oh my but I only just got back myself and you're gone! But what a post to savour - it'll keep me going for at least 2 weeks and that's before I start checking what else I've been missing! t.xxx
Posted by: kitschen pink | September 15, 2009 at 09:05 PM
Lovely post - and I really love your site. Thanks so much for sharing it ! Best wishes to you...
Posted by: Elise | September 16, 2009 at 12:03 PM
AWESOME SCARF! It's so beautiful! Have fun in Spain!!
Posted by: Lindseyrose | September 16, 2009 at 02:30 PM
Your scarf is lovely! Such happy colors--they make me smile.
You and Hugo have a wonderful trip! I'm so excited for you--the furthest I've gotten away this year is to the next town, so anything farther than that seems exotic to me.
Posted by: Kymm | September 16, 2009 at 09:10 PM
Really impressive scarf! I often pop in to admire your Blog with its colours and creative vibe. Enjoy your break. xx
Posted by: Josephine Tale Pedder | September 17, 2009 at 12:15 PM
Your amazing!! That turned ou so cute!! It looks great on you too!! I love the sample color card idea!! Thanks for sharing!
Suzanne
Posted by: Suzanne | September 17, 2009 at 01:32 PM
Hello hello! Had to pop in here again to say that the Best gift of all was tonight's bedtime story on Cbeebies! Me and the girls got all excited :o)
Hope you're having a relaxing time.
Isabelle
Posted by: Isabelle (France) | September 18, 2009 at 07:29 PM
That looks fantastic! I've just discovered your blog today and I must say, its been rainy and nasty here and those bright colors have cheered me up. Hope you have a great time traveling!
Katy
Posted by: grasshoppersense.wordpress.com | September 18, 2009 at 11:13 PM
Totally sensational and inspirational !!!
Once again I adore the palette of colour you have chosen, just beautiful.
Posted by: Sally anne | September 21, 2009 at 09:30 PM
just gorgeoussss......i love the way it ruffles and the colours simply zing...I love the mosaic effect and your descriptions
Posted by: Janice | September 22, 2009 at 12:50 PM
It looks FABULOUS! I love it! All those beautiful colours. All your hard work has paid off. I can wait to get back to doing more crochet. At moment busy decorating..
Isabelle x
Posted by: Suzy's Vintage Attic | September 22, 2009 at 07:13 PM
This is really beautiful !!! I love it so much ! All is perfect ! Congratulations :o)
Posted by: Binoo | September 22, 2009 at 08:41 PM
This is gorgeous.. just discovered your blog which I love! a fab, funky & colourful blog!... thanks Tx
Posted by: Tcake | September 23, 2009 at 10:37 PM
wow wee...kinda speechless......
Posted by: suzie sews | September 25, 2009 at 04:58 PM
it's gorgeous Vanessa, loving the idea of your wearing your rainbow xx
Posted by: driftwood | September 25, 2009 at 09:42 PM
I love love love that scarf!!! you are a clever little bunny. have a lovely holiday love Lucey x
Posted by: Lucey | September 27, 2009 at 08:42 PM
I love this scarf. It's fantastic.
Fiona
x
Posted by: Fiona (little sis) | September 29, 2009 at 03:49 PM
Your scarf is absolutely beautiful!!! I love it. I might have to make me one. :) Thanks for sharing. Lynn
Posted by: Lynn Williams | October 02, 2009 at 01:37 AM
I love this scarf! Can't wait for the demo/tutorial!!!
Posted by: Megan Kay | October 06, 2009 at 03:54 AM
awesome! I just love it! so colourful and yummy!
xxx
Posted by: Mam'zelle flo | October 18, 2009 at 04:43 PM
really imprrrrrrresssssive! fabulous idea to leave the outer squares open! cheers from the land of rainbows (southwest ireland) eliane
Posted by: Eliane | November 29, 2009 at 08:37 AM
I love the scarf I would like to see the pattern. Please send me a copy. Can this scarf be made with hearts? I would like to make one with hearts. I a begginer crocheter
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