Wisteria Mystery Create-A-Long
Love yarn and a good mystery?
**This MCAL is no longer available for purchase. If you’d like to be notified when I have another MCAL coming up, please sign up for the Melody’s Makings Newsletter.**
Share your passion for yarn and creation with people who truly understand. My Mystery Create-A-Longs (MCALs) are designed to unite all of the yarn addicts in a fun group activity! I don’t often get out of the house without my kids….so getting to a yarn shop to knit or crochet with a group of super fun people just doesn’t happen for me.
That’s one of the reasons why I started my Mystery Create-A-Longs….because I want to share my love of yarn with those who understand it! There’s nothing better than being surrounded by people who encourage you to create while always offering kind and uplifting support. By participating in a Mystery Create-A-Long, you’ll be surrounded by those awesome people….without ever having to leave your couch (Or get out of your pajamas! In fact, I usually send each new clue immediately after waking up while I’m still in my pjs with my coffee in hand. Shhh!)!
The Wisteria Mystery Create-A-Long is a little different from my others….because this time around I’m encouraging you to treat yourself! It’s time to make something absolutely stunning that YOU can wear regularly and show off your skills to the world! We all just got done with the Holiday crafting mayhem…and we survived! Let’s celebrate by treating ourselves to something deluxe…..and Wisteria is OH SO DELUXE!
I’m not going to give too many clues, because I want it to be the most awesome surprise you’ve gotten so far this year….but Wisteria is made with fine, elegant yarn, and features some absolutely stunning lace work. It’s a garment that you’ll wear often. In fact, I’ve now shown it to two of my close friends….and the first thing each of them said was, “I want that!” Looks like I might be making a couple more for friends during the MCAL.
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My Promise to You?
My 2016 is all about creating community! If you choose to participate in one of my Mystery Create-A-Longs, you’ll find yourself part of one of the loveliest communities of people around. You’ll have access to quick help (from me and all the other community members) should you need it. Most of all, you’ll have fun!
I guarantee it.
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Haven’t participated in one of my Mystery Create-A-Longs in the past!? I say create-a-long because the mystery pattern will be written in both a knit and a crochet version. So you get to choose which one works best for you, and then work alongside an amazing community of crafters to create something awesome. If you’d like to check out the last couple of Create-A-Longs we did, you can see some of the final results in my blog posts about them. We made the Autumn Lovin’ dress back in September (click here to check out the details) and the Stripey Lion Sweater in November (click here to check out the details).
I’ve been working really hard, testing out new systems, and applying feedback and notes I’ve received from the last couple of Mystery Create-A-Longs…..and this one is going to be my best one yet!
- This event will be 6 full weeks of community fun (since many people will be working on adult sizes, I want to make sure to include plenty of time so we can still be relaxed and have lots of fun!).
- I’ve written this pattern in both a knit and a crochet version so everyone gets a chance to be involved! I’ve even written the knit version so it can be worked flat or in the round….so you can choose whether knitting flat and seaming or seamlessly working in the round is best for you!
- I’ve included all sizes from Girl’s Small through Women’s XXXL (more details towards the bottom of this post)! This is a pattern that you’ll be able to make time and time again for any woman or girl in your family….and believe me….you’ll be getting requests from all of them!
- I’ve made in-depth video tutorials for any challenging segments….which means even if you’re a beginner level knitter or crocheter, you can still jump in and create an amazing finished project. Plus, you’ll be gaining skills and confidence which will help improve your crafting skill set even after the event.
- For any sections you do have questions on, you’ll have practically un-limited access to me, and to a group of people working along with you, to answer questions. I do sleep and leave the house from time to time, but my number one priority during this event will be to provide fast and helpful support.
- The more people who participate, the more goodies each person will get. During the last event, we had so many people participate that everyone got 2 free patterns from my shop in addition to the Create-A-Long pattern. This time I’ve created group incentives that range anywhere from everyone getting 1 to 4 free patterns.
- I’ll be giving away $25 Etsy Gift Cards at the end of the event! Once again, the more people who participate, the more prizes I’ll give away.
This Mystery Create-A-Long is 6 full weeks of suspenseful fun and gives you the chance to connect with a seriously amazing group of fellow yarn lovers! If you purchase now, this event costs about the price of 3 cups of Starbuck’s coffee – just $11.00! Clues will be sent directly to your e-mail inbox, as well as your Ravelry library (just be sure to leave me your Rav. username at check out!) every 1-2 days, and you’ll receive the final copy of the pattern, with all sizes included, as one PDF after the create-a-long has ended.
If you’ve participated in one of my Mystery Create-A-Longs in the past and already know you’re ready to join, use one of the “Add to Cart” buttons below, and complete the check out process (please be sure to read the note on the check out page). Make sure you do take a moment to read about the group incentive I’ve set up for this Create-A-Long too though….You just may end up snagging one or even four additional free patterns for signing up for and sharing this event!
Why is it called an A-Long?
This event is called a create-a-long because it’s done on a schedule with a community of crafters….which is part of the reason it’s so much fun! Share photos of your work, admire everybody’s awesome projects, and always have someone available to help.
This create-a-long will be hosted in the Melody’s Makings’ Facebook Group and the Melody’s Makings’ Ravelry Group. We already have 6,000 fun and friendly knitters/crocheters in the FB group and nearly 2,000 in the Ravelry group. We’d love to have you join us!
Click here to be taken to the FB group. Then hit “Request to Join.” I’ll be approving requests periodically as we approach the start of the Create-A-Long.
Click here to be taken to the Ravelry group.
When does the Create-A-Long start?
You can sign up for the MCAL for just $11.00. After March 2nd, you will no longer be able to join the MCAL.
I’ve listed the general materials list below, but you’ll also receive a detailed list via e-mail in PDF format within 48 hours of when you sign up. Clues will be sent directly to your e-mail, as well as your Ravelry library, in PDF format every 1-2 days. The clue schedule is as follows:
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
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What do 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:
- 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
How do I know what yarn to use?
You can pretty much choose any DK (3) weight yarn to use with this pattern, as long as you’re sure to match gauge before starting the project. I will be giving you some suggestions for yarn in different price points, and also providing you with a 20% off coupon code for the same yarn I used (as long as you purchase enough) in the detailed Materials List. This pattern is perfect for any girl or woman in your life and includes all sizes Girl’s Small through Women’s XXXL (E-mail me at [email protected] if you’d like to see a detailed size chart before purchase. Otherwise it will be included with your Materials List and sent immediately after purchase). I’ve made two of these so far (I’ll be making two more during the create-a-long) and used grey for one, and gold for the other. It would look absolutely stunning in any color though….I suggest you choose one that matches lots of the clothes in your wardrobe….then you can wear it regularly! The options are endless!
If you’d like to check your gauge before purchasing, here’s what you need to know (stitch gauge is more important than row gauge in this case….though it’s always best if you can match both!):
Crochet gauge:
9 sts and 6 rows = 2 inches (5cm) in Double Crochet
Knit gauge:
11 sts and 16 rows = 2 inches (5cm) in Stockinette Stitch
What’s this about a group incentive?
Because I want to ensure that this Mystery Create-A-Long is an even bigger hit than the last one, I’m offering a few awesome reasons to share with your crafty friends! Last time we ended with 475 participants! Think we can beat that number this time!?
If we have over 800 participants! That means I’ll send everyone who participates 2 free patterns that coordinate with the Create-A-Long pattern, and a coupon code for two free patterns (you choose which ones) from my shop at the end of the event. Everyone who creates a Ravelry project page and shares final photos by March 26, 2016 will be entered to win one of 10 $25 Etsy Gift Cards.
**Extra incentives are given out per participant. If you purchase both the knit and the crochet versions of this create-a-long, you’ll receive both the knit and the crochet versions of the coordinating patterns, but you’ll only receive one coupon code for the free patterns in my shop.**
So please – share with your friends and the crafting communities you’re a part of. The bigger, the better when it comes to Mystery Create-A-Longs! Some ideas for sharing:
- Favorite the listings (both knit and crochet) for this event over on Ravelry! The more favorites the listings get, the more visible they’ll be to the Ravelry community. (Click here for the knit version. Click here for the crochet version.)
- You’ll find some handy social sharing buttons hovering at the bottom of this post. Click on the network you’d like to share on and tell all your friends!
- Head over to my Facebook page and hit the “Share” button on the Wisteria Mystery Create-A-Long announcement pinned to the top of my page.
- Head over to my Twitter page and Re-Tweet my announcement about the Wisteria Mystery Create-A-Long!
- Share the link to this blog post (https://melodys-makings.com/wisteria-mystery-create-a-long/) in any knit or crochet forums you’re a part of! Please make sure you reference their rules first. Ideas for forums are any knit or crochet FB groups you belong to, any crafty Reddit groups you belong to, or Knitting Paradise.
Ready to Sign up?
Use one of the “Add to Cart” buttons below, and complete the check out process (please be sure to read the note on the check out page).
**If you have any trouble during check out, please send me an e-mail at [email protected].**
I’m SO excited to get started on this! Can’t wait to have you along for the fun! ♥ ♥ ♥
Melody
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LOVE the video of the clues. soooooo cute.
The hardest part of these create alongs is not deciding if I want to do it, but if I want to crochet it or knit it!!
Your children are so adorable !
Can’t wait to start!!!!
Sounds very exciting, I can’t wait to start. I was so excited about this I didn’t read everything about adding a note to the seller, when you checked out on paypal, with your ravely name and email address. I think my email address is on paypal though 🙂
I’m very excited about this…I have been enjoying the MCAL…I love the way you write your patterns. So because of the Jan MCAL you now have me hooked on wanting more. Thank you
It sounds like fun, but also like it’s clothing. I prefer, since I’m just coming back to crocheting, to keep with afghans and baby things. Let me know if it’s clothing, and I will go from there. Thanks
Hey Sharon! It is a garment 🙂 I do include videos for every step, though. I had lots of first time knitters and crocheters making a gorgeous sweater during my last MCAL. Doing it in steps makes it easy peasy!
I couldn’t see a comment section!! I did not use the paypal, (I used another credit card) though so maybe that is why. I did join the Ravelry group. If I need to give you more information please let me know
Hi melody
I have some 2 weight yarn that matches gauge but would like to make sure I have enough as I can’t get any more. Is there any chance you could let me know the yardage for a size 42 inch chest(crochet) please. I would really appreciate this as I would love to do your cal. Thank you so much. My email is [email protected].
Is this garment something that would be suitable in a warm climate area?
I live in Australia in a warm area. We don’t have cold winters like many places but there are some cold days where I wear a light cardigan.
This sounds like a great-along but I am a bit dubious as to whether or not I would be able to wear it…………
If there are some times when you wear lighter garments, then I think you’ll definitely use it. I told my Mom (who lives in Hawaii) that she should make it 🙂
Hi – so my question is – my paypal email is different from my ravelry email. How can I make sure the clues go to my ravelry account and email?
Thanks
Hey Alaine! There’s a tiny little spot on the PayPal form during checkout where you can add your Rav. username. Just stick it in that section and I’ll send to your library as well 🙂
This is such a cute video. Kids are adorable.
Hey Melody, Im definitely going to get in on this one too Ive done all of them so far but I cant pay for it until next week. no worries though I dont mind paying that extra $. Loved that video it was soooo cute of your kiddos. anyway I guess when I pay for it you will give us the info on the yarn you used at that time? Ill be talking to you soon I hope. If I come up with any extra $$ inthe next 48 hrs Ill be signing up sooner. talk with you soon!
thanks
excited to do something for me this time (hehe!)
susanne
Hi Melody,
I am not sure which one I want to do so I bought both veraions
How were we supposed to leave our Ravelry name?
Cute video♡ As I rold you before you are so talented.
Vickie
Hi Vickie!
Thank you so much <3 Please just send me an e-mail with your Ravelry username at [email protected]. I’ll get it added to you info 🙂 I’m excited to have you along for the fun!
Hi Melody,
I will be joining you again on the CAL. I am excited that it will be light weight enough to wear even in Hawaii. I don’t live there but I am familiar with their weather. Looking forward to many more events. Your clues by your children were great!
Looking forward to this CAL
Joyce
Melody,
I am left-handed and usually have to adjust patterns with definite left and right sides. Since we won’t have the complete pattern to adjust, will I be able to follow the pattern?
Yes! There’s only one section where you might come into a problem, and I’ve already reference that in the videos 😉
Hi Melody,
I have to admit that when I joined the first CAL with you that I was a little nervous about it ; ) because with others, you are completely in the dark about what you will be making. I was very happy to see sizes listed, so at least I knew it would be a piece of clothing… and even then, I chose to do the 0-3 month size “just in case” I wasn’t happy with the design so at least I wouldn’t have wasted more than about a skein of yarn if I didn’t. But I was really very happy with the sweater so I decided to join the January CAL… Newborn size… and the hat with the attached cowl/scarf was darling, too. So here I am… I joined the Wisteria CAL and this time, I’m going to make the adult size… for me! I’m sure I’ll be as happy with this design as I was with the first two.
Thank you for your talent and sharing it with us!
Yay Carol! I’m so happy to hear that I was able to meet your expectations with the other two MCALs! I work really hard to make sure my designs are beautiful and unique! I hope you love Wisteria just as much as I do….I’m pretty excited about it.
I’m trying to sign up. When I get to my cart, the link doesn’t take me to PayPal, or any other payment option. I even tried to go thru Ravelry, but that ends up taking me to the same place. Please help!
Hey Donna! Oh no! Just e-mail me at [email protected] and let me know if you’d like the knit or the crochet version. I’ll invoice you directly. So sorry it’s giving you trouble.
Absolutely wonderful idea giving away free tuition.
in all the years I’ve been crocheting I’ve never done an adult garment. I’m kind of nervous about trying this.
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Melody. When will the winners for the scolarship pattern be announced?
Everyone receiving a scholarship will be contacted via e-mail on February 12th 🙂
I am like the other person who said she could not decide which one to do, crochet or knit. I have crocheted almost all my life (since 9 years old and I am 66) but I am just learning how to knit. So I am going to buy both patterns that way if I totally fail at the knit I can still crochet one.
Not sure how to do the Ravelry thing. I am on Ravelry just not sure how to send my name or profile page. Went to my page on Ravelry and this is the URL.. hope this is what you wanted. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/PennyE3
I have never done a CAL before or an adult garment so I am wayyyy excited.
Thank you
Penny
Thanks so much Penny! I got your e-mails and just sent your info over 🙂
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i don’t want to nudge, but is there any chance i was yes included in the give away to join the cal?
still hoping!
Just curious. Why is there a fee?
I would do these for free all the time if I could manage it. They’re so much fun! There’s a ton of time and work behind the scenes that goes into them though….and this business feeds my family of 4. So I do have to charge for them. I try to make them affordable and load them with freebies, though, so it ends up being a great deal for everyone.
I would love to join in the fun, but I have 2 concerns, the first being the sizing-I am one size at the top and another at the bottom(hips), the second is that it will be too hot to wear here in Florida. Heat and humidity!
Hey Janie!
I’m happy to send you a size chart to take a look at before purchase 🙂 Just e-mail me at [email protected]. As to whether you’ll be able to wear it or not….it’s a lighter weight item, so something that can even be worn on chillier days in warmer climates. My mom (who lives in Hawaii) is making it for the rare days that the weather gets down to 67 or so. Hope this helps you make your decision!
I’m so excited. I Love being in a group of positive people. I’m new to the group. I feel very comfortable. Thank you!
Yay! I love to hear that! This group really is full of the most caring, kind crafters you’ll find 🙂
I am trying to get my daughter to learn how to knit. Is this too advanced for just learning knitters?
If she knows the basics – how to knit and purl – then she should be able to do it! She may have to practice with some of the skills at the beginning, but if she’s willing to practice new skills then she should be good to go.
Thanks I will encourage her to join.
ooh i left it to late to order 🙁 having major internet issues and illness lately and i forgot to follow up after your comment on facebook to me about it being better to purchase it now during the MCAL. Is it really too late???? If it is will it be avaliable later to buy as a completed pattern?
Bec – send me an email at [email protected] 🙂