A Granny Square Scarf

I have finally, finally, finished my first crochet project. It is a granny square scarf for my very good friend Kate, whose birthday it is this week. We met through the NCT five years ago, when our eldest children were babies, and she has become a firm friend; a running buddy, a drinking partner, someone to share the highs and lows of parenting with, and best of all she has a very dry sense of humour. She once said her favourite colour was purple so I really hope she likes this scarf (hmm...I hope she wasn't joking).

I love it. I want one for myself in just two colours, maybe black and white or navy blue and white. It was a joy to make. Some find making granny squares repetitive but, novice crocheter that I am, I find making them incredibly relaxing as so little concentration is needed. I can crochet these while chatting to the kids, watching tv, sitting in waiting rooms, the passenger seat of the car. And in cycling shops, while John spends an interminable length of time looking at bikes.

It is long enough to loop around your neck and fold over comfortably - and here I am wearing it. (Bella took the photo on the left). I have a very odd expression on my face, as I concentrate on trying to take a picture without being able to look in the viewfinder.

There is nothing worse that a too-short scarf in my opinion. I was tempted to add another square or two but I'm glad I didn't, as I think any more length would have caused the squares to pull and stretch under the weight of the yarn. The cotton yarn has a lovely weight and drape to it, it is heavier than other types so I hope it will be warm.

Some information:

• I crocheted 12 squares on a 3mm hook. Each granny square contains 8 rounds and measures 13cm x 13cm or 5" x 5". 
• The total length, including tassels, is 2m or 6' 6". 
• I chose Annell cotton yarn, from the Yvestown Shop for a warm and hopefully non-itchy scarf.
• I used 2 balls of dark grey (58), and one each of light grey (57), violet (54), purple (50) and plum (80). 
• At €1.95 or £1.50 per ball that is a total cost of £9, which is think is pretty good, and I have loads and loads of yarn left over, about half a ball of most colours.

You could crochet a double stitch border around the edge if you like - I may try this as I increase in hooky confidence. I want to crochet up a storm, and make more of these beauties for Christmas and birthday gifts, and for myself. I love granny square scarves - I found these scarves in particular very inspiring. My sister, Katy, has requested one edged in cream for Christmas. But first I need to finish the cushion I am half way through. Oh, so many jobs, so little time! 

Now, I need to go and do some parenting - both kids are currently tripping around the house in my old heels, teetering dangerously, sensing that my attention is elsewhere and making the most of it. Yesterday I painted Bella's toenails and Angus just sat down next to her, took off his socks and said "me too". I complied. So you can imagine what he looks like with painted toenails and wearing yellow peep toe heels... :-)