Riffle Edge Fringe 🧶🪝 The Evolution of a Crochet Border

The Evolution of the Riffle Edge: From Sketches to Fringe

Sometimes a design needs a bit of time. If you follow Doily Designs, you might recall the Riffle Edge, seen in things like the Americana Star Coaster. It started years ago as a simple riffle stitch that I shared a hand drawn graph for here on the Blog in 2025, to show how those foundation stitches come together.

Lately, I have been pushing the boundaries of what this stitch can do, and am moving away from the standard border and leaning into a longer dramatic fringe style, like seen on this Boho Granny American Flag. 

Why is it different?

When I first put the word out into the world around 2012, this elongated version created a new texture today that I hadn't seen then or now anywhere else with my weird loopy stitch seen below on a doily in 2012 with the creation of the Riffle Edge.

The core of my original design is still in the loopy fringe style that makes it's statement.

It has been a slow burn for four plus years of refining this stitch to get it to what ifs to real possibilities and a polished version.

I will admit, finding the focus to get this all down on paper (and screen) has not been easy lately, but seeing how this fringe hangs and moves makes the process worth it. Whether you are a fan of the original shorter version or you are ready for this new longer look, I can't wait to see how you use it!

This Riffle Edge Fringe is looking great on the American Flag Blanket!

Have you tried the Riffle Edge yet? Let me know what you think of this longer version!

Find more on this stitch here on Doily Designs Blog

Original Short Riffle Edge on the Americana Star Coaster

Tutorials on Doily Designs Youtube

Thank you for stopping by and for your support.

Best wishes and happy crocheting!

~ Cathleen 🧶

It has recently come to my attention that not everyone knows how to make fringe, so I will be adding Fringe videos as I am able. For now, more Riffle Edge Fringe 😋 👀

Slst Join & Sc Join 🧶🪝

Crochet Top Slst Join 🧶 (Slip Stitch Join) & Sc Join (Single Crochet)

Wonderful Crochet Joining Techniques!

This is one of my favorite Crochet Joins. If you are looking for a crochet joining technique, and then you may find one of these joins very useful. You will also see both the Slst Join & Sc Join in a lot of my crochet projects and patterns.

Slst Join: 

This quick and easy top slip stitch crochet join comes in handy, for when you want your squares close together, and not spaced too far apart, as well as creating a beautiful, flat look.

Watch the video to see how I crochet the top Slst Join.

So simple and so quick. 👍

Slst Join: 

With yarn in the back of your work, insert hook in Blo of both pieces (make sure work is facing right side up/lined up), YO, pull yarn thru all 3 loops on your hook. Repeat as needed for top Slst Join. 

I owe a big shout out and 'Thank you' to crochetpedie for sharing this wonderful and useful crochet join, as well as the always beautiful Celtic Join that you may recall me sharing in the past, as it is my Top Favorite Crochet Join. Click on the links in this paragraph to take you to crochetpedie for more types and tutorials for crochet joining.

Top Sc Join (Single Crochet Join):

Watch the video below to see how to do the Sc Join.

Brief explanation of Sc Join (Single Crochet Join):

With yarn in back, and pieces tog, ins in one side and the other, YO, pull yarn thru 2 ups, YO, pull thru 2 loops on hook. Repeat, (yarn in back) ins in one side and then the other piece, YO, pull thru 2, YO, pull thru 2 lps.

Find more by Doily Designs on YouTube

Patterns on Etsy.

Thank you for stopping by.

Best wishes and Happy Crocheting!

~ Cathleen 🧶

Life Before the Magic Ring 🪄✨

Before learning the Magic Ring .... my crochet projects tended to have large gaping holes. One of the biggest was the one seen in this Giant Crochet Doily Rug

And if you are thinking that maybe it is because it is a large project with lots of large holes, this is not the only reason. Take a closer look at some of my other crochet from 2012 before I learned the Magic Ring, and my one of my first intricate Doily Earring Patterns, again, before I had heard of the Magic Ring....

While it isn't horrible, I much prefer a tighter center, now that I know of the Magic Ring, and its many wonderful uses.

As well as these other Doily Earrings from 2012 as well. Do you not agree they would be a lot better without the center hole? What is that thing in the middle?

Too many times I have heard people complaining about the Magic Ring and asking me if there was an alternative for my patterns. While there is, I still strongly suggest the Magic Ring. In several of my patterns the Magic Ring is a must!

If you are unfamiliar with the Magic Ring, you can take a look at my video tutorial on Doily Designs Youtube.

Find the Magic Oval Pattern, Magic Flowers Pattern with Magic Leaf (Crochet Pencil Topper), and more on Doily Designs Etsy.

Magic Flower Pencil Topper Pattern:

and.... 

Magic Oval :) Newly Released Pattern, was a great Father's Day Gift last year ;)

Magic Oval takes place of the Chain Oval, that can sometimes leave holes in the center of your crochet ovals. This new fun pattern is great for all OVAL projects, like Bags, Placemats, Coasters and more.

Poker Placemat Edition ♠️♥️♣️♦️

Thank you for stopping by.

Share in the comments what was one technique that changed your crochet?

Best wishes and happy crocheting,

~ Cathleen 🧶

Crochet Magic Oval 🪄✨

 Magic Oval 🪄✨

 Crochet oval pattern for many applications including but not limited to Placemats, and Coasters.

Magic Oval Crochet Pattern

Some Special Stitches are uses for the Magic Oval, so be sure to check out my YouTube Channel to find out how to do any of the stitches that are giving you problems. As well as the new Magic Oval Tutorial just released.

Crochet Magic Oval can be used as a decorative placemats and matching coasters.

Magic Oval creates an oval center that does not have the usual oval 'hole' on the ends you find with Chain Ovals (ovals that begin with a chain stitch). 

I like to use this on bag bottoms as well as for small oval coasters.

Use to add to other crochet creations.

Say Goodbye to those end Gaps in your Ovals!

Magic Oval is a Crochet Game Changer!!

If you have ever crocheted an oval for a bag bottom or cute placemat, you probably already know about the dreaded holes that can form in the ends of the chain. 

Usually, when we work around a foundation chain to create an oval, the ends can stretch out, leaving unsightly gaps at either side.

Enter: The Magic Oval 🪄 ✨

This technique is a total game saver for crocheters who want a denser, seamless finish. It creates a solid center without the usual oval 'hole' on the ends, giving your projects a professional, boutique quality look.

Why you will Love the Magic Oval

The beauty of this method lies in its versatility. Because it creates such a sturdy and clean start, you can use it as the foundation for almost anything that begins with an oval. I find myself reaching for this technique constantly.

My Favorite Ways to Use It:

Small Coasters:  Perfect for that minimalist, clean aesthetic on your coffee table.

Home Decor:  It is the ideal start for oval placemats, doilies and even rugs.

Bag Bottoms:  It provides a strong, gap-free base that can support the weight of your items without stretching.

Hybrid Creations:  Use it as a base to add to other crochet creations, like decorative patches or designs.

One Technique, Endless Applications

The Magic Oval isn't just for one specific pattern, it is a foundational skill that opens up a world of possibilities. Once you master the center, you can keep growing your stitches to create:

Elegant table runners.

Sturdy market totes.

Oval shaped stuffed plushies.

Decorative mats for your plants and plates.

Pro Tip:  When using the magic oval for bag bottoms, I recommend using a slightly smaller hook than your yarn calls for to make the base even more rigid and durable.

What is Next?

Now that you know why the magic oval is so essential, are you ready to see how it's done?

Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to level up, this technique will quickly become a staple in your crochet toolkit.

Magic Oval 🪄✨

Thank you for stopping by.

Best wishes, and happy crocheting,

~ Cathleen 🧶

Ai Crochet 🤯 🧶

People at it again...

Watch out for Ai crochet pattern scams.

Have you seen this rooster? 🤨

For a split second I got excited, thinking that someone actually figured out how to create this cute Rooster, only to snap to my senses before ever daring to click the link. 

Yes it is people at it again, and the crochet rooster photos seen below are Ai. 

Keep these scams in mind when scrolling, and seeing pictures like this one with unrealistic crochet objects and links to free patterns. These are Ai rendered photos, and this is a trending scam, that may even include a 'pattern'. Which in some reported cases are also ai generated 'patterns', and not a real pattern at all. Leaving people confused and disappointed.

If you frequent this blog, you may recall several  past issues that I had done about Ai and crochet, one of which includes the cute Ai rooster seen below. 

Notice anything weird? 🤔 

One difference is this latest one has more recognizable 'stitches', giving it the appearance that it is the real deal. Yet they are almost identical in most aspects. A second attempt perhaps.

While people worry about where Ai is taking us, we need to also be aware of threats by other humans happening now.

Thank you for stopping by.

Best wishes, and happy real time crocheting!

To see Doily Designs real crochet pattern catalog, go to Doily Designs Etsy

Circle CRAZY 🧶 🧶 🧶

Doily Designs Crochet Circles & Lazy Circle Lace Washcloth Pattern .

Enjoy this pattern going around and around ⭕ 🧶 🎠 😂 🧶🎠

Simple, and elegant crochet circular washcloth is a fun beginner pattern, with updated stitches, and a classic looking crochet design. 

Circles can also be used as placemats, or doilies.

Make multiple size circles, for a multitude of uses.

Use CIRCLES for eyes, jar bottoms, bag base, pillows, and more! 🧶 

If you are just starting out, and new to crocheted circles, this pattern gives you a basic formula, sizes, hooks, with stitch chart, and even a beautiful, lacy washcloth pattern, to start your journey crocheting in the round. 

We are loving going full circle with this pattern .

 🧶 ⭕ 🧶 

Don't like MAGIC RINGS? Check out my YouTube video on how to make the perfect Magic Ring every time, along with video tutorial for washcloth pattern (available with pattern purchase).

If you enjoyed the star, follow link to blog page for free Tiny Star patterns,  and if you enjoyed this Magic Ring tutorial, find more of my tutorials on YouTube , and please like and subscribe, :) and Thank you.

Thank you for stopping by.

Best wishes, and happy crocheting!

Ai CROCHET SCAMS

Ai, or a people problem?

With the abundant use of Ai, I have been seeing to many posts with lovely crochet items claiming to give you a free link to the pattern. 🛑🚨🧨 This is more than likely TOM FOOLERY and people trying to scam you in some way. Be leery when following links like this.

It would be okay to say something like, "Hey, check out this crochet art I made with Ai!" And post a pic. I did. 😅 Here you go.

But you can not sell the pattern to this, (or give it away), if that pattern does not really exist.

The stitches seen in the above picture are not even real stitches, and it is an Ai generated image.

Try to ask Ai to write you a pattern, and more than likely, you will get a shell of what resembles a pattern, not an actual crochet pattern.

In my experiences, Ai has not quite figured out how to write complete crochet patterns.

 So if someone tells you that an unrealistic looking crochet item has a pattern link, please be leery to follow it, as it might just be an attempt to exploit you.

This one was the latest to catch my eye. I had to look very closely, and still wasn't for certain. I mean I could figure it out how to make it, given enough time. And it is so pretty!

The picture above contained a link saying that it was to the pattern. I followed it, and it was NOT.

I can not find a pattern for these shells anywhere, and do not believe that it really exists. Please correct me if I am wrong.

This is potentially a scam.

Ai didn't do that. People did.

Ai is useful, and can do so very much, but We must use it wisely.

To hear more of my thoughts on Ai and crochet, visit this link to my Ai post here on Doily Designs blog.

Thank you for stopping by.

Best wishes, and happy crocheting!

Star Square Coasters

Crochet pattern for star square coasters using using celestial colors, and the Americana Coaster Pattern, by Doily Designs.

These fun and easy coasters work up quickly with the Americana Coaster Pattern, and can be made with 2 different edges, and your choice of colors other than red, white, and blue, like these blue and light yellow star coasters.

We still love the Red, White, and Blue 💙 ❤️

Thank you for stopping by.

Best wishes, and happy crocheting.

Crochet Cross

Crochet Cross Pattern

Jeweled center, crochet Cross pattern 

Easy pattern can make a variety of CROSS's, with varying edge designs, plank ends, and sizes. Graph now included.

2 styles of CROSS's in one pattern.

New pattern now available on Etsy. 

Use any size hook, and corresponding yarn to get various size Cross's in your favorite colors.

Ornamental Cross's, from tiny to large.

Cross can be made with any hook or yarn, from micro size 9, to jumbo size N hooks (pictured above is N/bulky).

Use thread, worsted weight, or bulky yarn, to create these quick and easy crochet CROSS's.

More shares of some of our favorite CROSS's

Thank you for stopping by.

Blessings, best wishes, and happy crocheting!

Versatile Crochet Patterns

Doily Designs strives to make patterns as versatile as possible.

You will see this in patterns like below from the American Flag Pattern Collection.

Diverse Stitch Doily in Autumn colors

The Cranberry Pineapple Christmas Tree Skirt Original Pattern, using variegated yarn, made by Monica A - M and her share tree skirt project show the beauty of trying various yarns. The look the variegated yarn gives this tree skirt pattern is absolutely fabulous!

Funny enough, while designing the Cranberry Pineapple Christmas tree skirt pattern, it never occurred to me to try variegated yarn, but in my opinion, it is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! And a wonderful idea.

The versatility of the Cranberry Pineapple Christmas tree skirt pattern has always been fun. I have personally tried it in all sorts of Flavors, Like the Figgy Pudding Pineapple Christmas Tree Skirt. 

Click the Flavor link to see more TREE SKIRT FLAVORS, and HERE for the Cranberry Pineapple Christmas tree skirt pattern.

Rainbow Heart Pillow Plush

From the American Flag Pillow Collection

Crochet Harvest Dishcloth began as the Americana Dishcloth with a slight variation.

Round textured washcloth is a fun Fall project. Crochet Washcloth Luffa can be a Doily, Washcloth/Dishcloth, Soap Saver, Treat Bag, or Table Decoration, and made as a Pumpkin, an Apple, Peach, a Luffa, or some other imaginative harvest design. 

Crochet Patriotic Mandala Doily

Find Doily Designs patterns on Etsy, or check out a few more versatile crochet patterns in the Ball Buster Collection 

Thank you for stopping by.

Keep it versatile. :)

Best wishes, and happy crocheting!