Wisteria CAL/KAL ~ FAQs

Wisteria Mystery CAL/KAL Starting Feb. 17th

I know that diving into a Mystery CAL/KAL like Wisteria 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 it’s about time that I post 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 Wisteria 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 Facebook group and my Ravelry group.  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!

Head over to the Facebook group by clicking here, and then hit “Request to Join.”  I’ll get you added as soon as I can 🙂

Come join the Ravelry group by clicking here.

Wisteria Mystery CAL Sneak Peek!

How does the Create-A-Long work?

When you purchase the Wisteria Mystery Create-A-Long listing, you’ll receive a detailed Materials List both in your Ravelry library and your e-mail inbox within 48 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 48 hours after purchase, please send me an e-mail.  I’ll make sure it gets added to your library).

On February 17th, 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 19 total segments in this Create-A-Long.  Each segment gives you 2 days to finish.  If you’re making one of the smaller sizes, then this little bit will be easy as pie each day.  If you choose one of the larger sizes, you’ll naturally need to put in a little more time each day.

When will each segment be sent?

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

Wisteria Mystery KAL Sneak Peek!

Clue #1: February 17, 2016

Clue #2: February 19, 2016

Clue #3: February 21, 2016

Clue #4: February 23, 2016

Clue #5: February 25, 2016

Clue #6: February 27, 2016

Clue #7: February 29, 2016

Clue #8: March 2, 2016

Clue #9: March 4, 2016

Clue #10: March 6, 2016

Clue #11: March 8, 2016

Clue #12: March 10, 2016

Clue #13: March 12, 2016

Clue #14: March 14, 2016

Clue #15: March 16, 2016

Clue #16: March 18, 2016

Clue #17: March 20, 2016

Clue #18: March 22, 2016

Clue #19: March 24, 2016

Prize Entry Due Date: March 26, 2016

Final Copy & Winner Announcement: March 27, 2016

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 the last MCAL.

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

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 anytime early Fall through late Spring.  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 9 sizes:

Girl’s Small

Girl’s Medium

Girl’s Large

Women’s Small

Women’s Medium

Women’s Large

Women’s XL

Women’s 2XL

Women’s 3XL

How do I know which size to make?

I’ve included a detailed size chart in the Materials List that you’ll receive with purchase.  If you’d like to take a peek at the chart before you purchase, please e-mail me at [email protected].  I’m always happy to send it in advance so you can make sure of your size and yarn requirements before you jump in.

What materials will I need?

For the crochet version of this pattern:

Materials:

• Yarn: Approximately 1500 – 3150 yards of DK (3) weight yarn.  I’ve included a detailed break down of approximate yarn requirements, along with some suggested yarn (plus a coupon code for 20% off on the yarn I used!), for each size in the Materials List which will be downloadable upon purchase.

• Crochet Hook: Size 5.0 mm (H/8) OR whatever size is needed to obtain gauge  **Just as a note – I’m a tight crocheter….so it’s more than possible you may need to go down a hook size or two to match my gauge.  I recommend making a gauge swatch with the suggested size of yarn before purchasing your supplies….just so you’ll be able to change yarn size if need be**

• Yarn or Tapestry Needle

For the knit version of this pattern:

Materials:

• Materials:
  • Yarn: Approximately 1125 – 2400 yards of DK (3) yarn. I’ve included a detailed break down of approximate yarn requirements, along with some suggested yarn (plus a coupon code for 20% off on the yarn I used!), for each size in the Materials List which will be downloadable upon purchase.
  • Knitting Needles: Size 4.0 mm (US6) OR whatever size is needed to obtain gauge.  You can choose to use a Circular Needle as straight needles and seam your final project or to use a Circular Needle as straight needles, and Double Pointed Needles (or the Magic Loop Method) to avoid seaming and work your project in the round.
  • Yarn or Tapestry Needle

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 $10.00.  February 17th, the start date, the price will increase again to $11.00.  After March 2nd, you will no longer be able to join the MCAL.

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!

I have a group incentive program set up for this event.  Essentially, the more people who sign up, the more freebies I’ll be giving away.  With the current number of sign-ups, everyone will not only be getting access to this event, and the Create-A-Long pattern, but I’ll also be gifting everyone two free patterns that coordinate with this Create-A-Long design, as well as your choice of two free patterns ($6 or less) from my shop.  So, for $10.00 (if you purchase now), you’ll be getting 5 great patterns with multiple sizes included in each.  That’s just $2.00 per pattern.  Seems worth it right!?  6 weeks of crafting community fun and at least 5 awesome patterns all for about the price of 2 cups of Starbuck’s coffee.

What are the prizes?

Everyone who finishes their project and posts it on Ravelry by March 26th 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, though, it looks like I’ll be giving away at least 10 $25 Etsy Gift Cards, and two mini skeins from XoXo Yarn.

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 Wisteria Mystery Create-A-Long blog post and hit “Add to Cart” on the version you’d like to purchase.  Click here to go there now.

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