Netherlee MCAL FAQs

Netherlee Mystery Create-A-Long

I know that diving into a Mystery CAL/KAL like Netherlee can be a little intimidating if you’ve never tried something similar in the past!  I frequently get e-mails asking the same questions….so here’s a quick little FAQ post so those of you who are still in the fence can make a more informed decision before purchase.  If you don’t see your question answered here, then please feel free to e-mail me at [email protected].  I’m here for you!

Let me just say this…..if you join Netherlee and commit to participating in the community fun that this event has to offer, you won’t regret it.  I guarantee it.

Now…..on to answering some of those questions!

What is a Create-A-Long?

A Create-A-Long is just like any crochet-a-long (CAL) or knit-a-long (KAL) except it features a pattern for both knitters and crocheters.  Because I write my patterns in both knit and crochet, and I don’t like to leave anyone out if at all possible, I made up the term “Create-A-Long” to include both ?

An a-long is when a group works as a community to make a pattern all at the same time.  Most feature a forum where people can share photos, ask questions, and chat it up during the event.

Where is the Create-A-Long hosted?

Though you can follow along and enjoy the Create-A-Long on your own, a huge part of the fun is working alongside a community, sharing stories and photos, and making new friends during the event.  I host my Create-A-Longs in my private Facebook group – Melody’s Fiber Friends.  I’ve found those are the easiest way for me to stay connected with everyone and available to answer questions as quickly as possible.

Even if you don’t join us on the create-a-long adventure this time, we’d still love to have you as part of the group!

Access to our private Facebook group is available after you sign up.

How does the create-a-long work?

When you purchase the Netherlee Mystery Create-A-Long listing, you’ll receive a detailed Materials List both in your Ravelry library and your e-mail inbox within 72 hours of signing up.  As long as you see that listing there, then you’re ready for the Create-A-Long (If, for some reason, you don’t see that in your Rav. library within 72 hours after purchase, please send me an e-mail.  I’ll make sure it gets added to your library).

On February 19th, I’ll be sending out the first segment or clue.  Each segment will be sent out via and e-mail directly to your inbox as well as an “Update” to the pattern in your Ravelry library.  When you go to your library after I send the update, you should see an icon that states an update is available.  Hit that icon to get the info. on the segment.  You should also receive an e-mail to the e-mail address connected to your PayPal account letting you know that an update is ready.

How many segments are there?

There are 4 total segments in this Create-A-Long.  Each segment gives you one week to finish.  If you’re making one of the smaller sizes, then this little bit will be easy as pie each week.  If you choose one of the larger sizes, you’ll naturally need to put in a little more time each week.

When will each segment be sent?

Here is the clue schedule for the Netherlee Mystery Create-A-Long:

Clue #1: February 19, 2018

Clue #2: February 26, 2018

Clue #3: March 5, 2018

Clue #4: March 12, 2018

Prize Entry Due Date: March 18, 2018

Final Copy & Winner Announcement: March 19, 2018

Who is this Create-A-Long suited for?  Do I need to be an advanced knitter or crocheter?

These Mystery Create-A-Longs are perfect for everyone!  I’m a HUGE fan of helping people learn new skills and build self-confidence in their crafting.  Mystery Create-A-Longs are a wonderful way to make that happen!  Sometimes I think just the thought of making a specific type of item holds people back.  The mystery part of these Create-A-Longs removes the intimidation factor and just helps people get down to it!  Plus, with a large group of people working along with you, and detailed videos for any segment that has more than basic skills, even a beginner should be able to take this event on!  In fact, my mother, a brand new crocheter, made a gorgeous sweater as her very first project during one of my MCALs.

I’m here to help….it’s my job.  Take advantage of that and jump in with both feet!

If working the knit version, you should know how to work in the round.  We’re happy to help find you resources and practice before the event so you can mark that down as a new skill Netherlee helped you learn too.

What type of pattern is it?

Since this is a mystery a-long, I can’t tell you all the specific details about the pattern.  What I can tell you, though, is that this is a useful garment perfect for the feet on cold winter days.  The style is a bit over-sized with a couple inches of positive ease….so there’s a bit of wiggle room on which size you can pick.

What sizes does this pattern include?

I’ve written this pattern to include 6 sizes:

Toddler

Child Small

Child Large

Adult Small

Adult Large

Adult XL

How do I know which size to make?

I’ve included a detailed size chart in the Materials List.

What materials will I need?

• • Check out the materials needed for the crochet version by clicking here.
• • Check out the materials needed for the knit version by clicking here.

What if I have trouble meeting gauge?

I’ve written this pattern so stitch gauge is more important than row gauge.  It’s always best to get as close as possible to both numbers, but if you’re only able to match one or the other, focus on matching the stitch gauge.

How much does it cost?

You can sign up for the MCAL for just $9.99.  You’ll receive all clues to your Ravelry library for that price.  You’ll also have group access, clues via email, and all membership perks for as long as you maintain an active Fiber Friends payment profile.

What do I get for my money?

If you’ve ever worked with me before, then you know I’m a HUGE fan of providing a lot of bang for your buck!  This Mystery Create-A-Long is no different.

In order to be able to spend a large amount of time putting on this event, I do have to charge for it.  I’m going above and beyond to make sure this is a seriously fun, seriously awesome, seriously premium event though.  I’m also providing all sorts of freebies and prizes!

As of now, anyone who signs up on or before 2/5 (and who maintains membership for at least 30 days), will receive a free membership guest pattern in both knit and crochet, and at least two new free patterns from my shop in both knit and crochet.  So for $9.99 that’s a total of 4 patterns in 2 versions each….just $1.25 per pattern!

What are the prizes?

Everyone who finishes their project and posts it on Ravelry by March 18th will be entered to win the prizes.  The more people we have involved, the more prizes I’ll be giving away.  Based on the current number of people participating, it looks like I’ll be giving away at least 5 $25 Etsy Gift Cards.

What do the people who have tried one of these events before say about them?

Here are just a few things some of the people who participated in the last Create-A-Longs had to say:

~”This was such an exciting create-a-long to participate in! It kept me guessing nearly until the last set of directions. I feel like my brain got nice exercise, making something without having a finished image to compare to. I’m so happy I signed up to participate and would love to do another create-a-long in the future!”

~”This project was exciting! I liked the fact that every few days, you receive a clue. The pattern was very thorough and easy to follow. Pictures were included to make sure your project looked the same. This is definitely not the last project I will buy and complete with this designer. Well done Melody!”

~”This was my first knit-a-long! I made the 1 to 2 year old size. Was absolutely wonderful!! Melody made it so easy to follow along and was always quick to help with anything along the way- as with the fellow knitters. Lots of encouragement. Learned something new with this project. Can’t wait for the next one! Thank you Melody for your wonderful and beautiful patterns.”

~”What a fun mystery craft-along!!! I have to admit, I would not have selected this on my own… But love this pattern!! (Can’t wait it make another) The sense of community, caring, and love from Melody and everyone else was awesome!!”

~”Fun and easy project! I enjoyed the different segments and seeing all the other projects develop over the weeks. It put a new twist on starting a project and I love learning new techniques, keeps knitting fresh and exciting. Thanks Melody!”

~”Enjoyed this Mystery Create a Long. I always choose the knit project even though I am much more comfortable with crochet. I choose knit because Melody is so helpful with her patterns to help me increase my knowledge of knitting.This pattern is beautiful just as it is, but it leaves many options to add your own creativity. I stayed pretty close to the pattern, but many added a belt, more variety in color, etc.Thank you Melody for offering these fun projects. It is fun to see it unfold and also to share thoughts with the others who joined in the fun.”

How do I sign up?

Head on over to the Netherlee Mystery Create-A-Long sign up page and hit “Join in Now”.  Click here to go there now.