Crocheting a Floral Coaster: A New and Exciting Project

While having breakfast and sitting at the dining table, I was thinking about my next crochet project. Suddenly, I looked at the coaster in front of me and got an idea—why not crochet a coaster myself? I immediately searched YouTube for tutorials and found a beautiful floral coaster design that I liked. Excited by the idea, I decided to make the same one.

I started with a magic ring. I had made a magic ring before for my crochet snake plant, but this one was different. Instead of the method I previously used, this pattern required ten double crochets (DC) in the ring. Each round had a different number of increases in single crochet (SC), which I initially found confusing. However, after watching the video multiple times and carefully following the pattern, I was finally able to get it right.

For the flower, I used violet-colored yarn to make the sepals and petals, while for the stem, I chose green yarn. This was my first time crocheting flowers, and I learned how to shape them using double crochet stitches.

This time, instead of posting pictures, I made a short video using the CapCut app, which is pretty easy to use, It offers features like trimming, adding text, filters, transitions, music, and effects .I created this video using this app within seconds. You can even hear the background noise of my baby since he was right there while I was making video.

Reflection on My Learning Experience

At first, I felt a bit nervous, wondering whether I would be able to complete the coaster successfully. However, as the project started taking shape, my confidence grew. To my surprise, the final result turned out exactly like the one shown in the tutorial. It was a really fun experience to make a flower for the first time—especially because I love flowers! I was super excited about crocheting the petal details. Although I found the petals a bit difficult to make at first, after retrying them a few times, I got the pattern right. Completing this coaster boosted my confidence in crochet, and I feel more comfortable trying out new patterns.

Reflection on the YouTube Tutorial

I really liked how the tutorial explained everything from start to finish. Each time the instructor completed a round, she showed the stitches and counted them to ensure they were correct. This made it much easier to follow the pattern accurately. Additionally, she demonstrated the detailed pattern for the petals, sepals, and stem, which was very helpful.

One thing that confused me was the subtitles. The pattern for each round was shown in the text, but instead of writing the number of single crochets (SC) required, the tutorial used “DC” (double crochet) in the instructions. This was misleading at first, but after carefully observing the video, I realized the correct pattern. Despite this small confusion, the tutorial was incredibly helpful in guiding me through the process.

Final Thoughts

This project was a great learning experience. Not only did I gain confidence in my crochet skills, but I also discovered how much I enjoy making floral designs. I’m looking forward to trying more crochet projects, and maybe even experimenting with different flower patterns in the future!

💬 What do you think I should try making for my next crochet project? Let me know in the comments!

Balancing Digital Freedom and Accountability: Exploring the Right to Be Forgotten

Every action we do on the internet leaves a digital trail, which in certain situations may follow us for the rest of our lives. A frustrated post or a mistake from years ago may reappear and impact relationships, employment prospects, and college admissions. This raises the question: Should people be able to remove specific elements of their digital history?

Answering this question involves a delicate balance between personal responsibility and the right to control one’s own digital narrative. While it is important to recognize the potential harm caused by the permanence of digital footprints, there also needs to be an understanding that erasing certain aspects of digital history could undermine transparency and accountability.

Nathan Jurgenson (2012) argues that our digital lives are an extension of our real lives, challenging the idea that the internet is a distinct universe. He criticizes the propensity to view online behavior as “less real,” even when it has long-term repercussions. The “right to be forgotten” is a legal notion that permits anyone to request that outdated or harmful online information be removed. This is in keeping with the debate around this idea. Protecting people’s freedom to create their digital identities ought to be a fundamental right if we agree with Jurgenson’s contention that digital environments are inextricably linked to real life.

Jason Ohler urges students to be proactive and accountable in their online contacts, emphasizing that ethical decision-making should be at the heart of digital citizenship. His argument emphasizes the need for students to exercise critical thinking before participating in online accountability initiatives or disclosing personal information, which is particularly pertinent when thinking about issues like cyber-vigilantism and digital footprints. Ohler’s viewpoint supports the notion that digital behavior has long-term effects, highlighting the significance of incorporating conversations about digital ethics into regular education rather than teaching them as stand-alone subjects. By integrating this mindset, educators can help students develop a responsible and reflective approach to their digital presence, ensuring they understand both their rights, such as the ability to control aspects of their digital history, and their responsibilities as online participants.

To deepen our understanding of digital footprints and the ethical implications of managing our online presence, the video by Kaspersky: What is Digital Footprint and How to Protect It. It explains the concept of a digital footprint, how it’s created, and offers practical tips for protecting personal information online. It ties in well with the discussions on digital ethics, the importance of protecting one’s online identity, and the broader conversation on the right.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, as we continue to navigate the digital world, it is vital to recognize that online actions have far-reaching implications. While individuals should have the right to manage and remove harmful aspects of their digital footprints, this right must be balanced with the need for accountability and transparency. Digital ethics should be incorporated into everyday education to help individuals understand their rights, responsibilities, and the potential consequences of their online actions. Ultimately, fostering a balanced approach to digital citizenship can ensure that individuals can navigate the complexities of the digital world with integrity and responsibility.

Assembling the Snake plant

This week, I focused on bringing my crochet snake plant closer to completion by working on three key elements: making the dirt, stuffing the pot, and assembling the leaves.

Creating the Dirt                                                                                                               

To give my plant a realistic base, I crocheted a circular piece to resemble to the soil. Finding the right size was a bit tricky—I had to make sure it fit snugly into the pot     while also leaving enough space for the leaves. After experimenting with different stitch counts, I finally achieved the right shape and texture. Assembling the plant                                                                                                        In this step I will attach the leaves to the dirt. I arranged in dirt carefully to create  a natural, full look. Some leaves needed reinforcement with wire to help them stand upright. I put them securely into the dirt base, making sure they were evenly spaced and well-balanced.

 Stuffing the Pot                                                                                                                  To ensure the pot maintains its structure, I cut a cardboard of same of the base of pot and then filled it with fiberfill. I initially used a small amount, but I realized it wasn’t providing enough support. After adding more stuffing and pressing it evenly, the pot took on a sturdy, well-shaped form. This step was important because it prevents the pot from collapsing and helps the plant stand upright.

After assembling the leaves and stuffing the pot, my crochet snake plant is finally taking shape. Here’s a look at how it all came together before the final touches.”Reflection on the Process                                                                                      Adjusting the stuffing amount and experimenting with different attachment methods for the leaves helped me understand the importance of structure in crochet projects. I also learned that small tweaks, such as adding more stitches for stability, can make a big difference in the final look.

I really appreciated how the blogger explained this part of the process. She used a diagram to show exactly where to place the leaves for a more elegant and balanced arrangement. The pictures she included—showing each leaf being added one by one from different angles—made it so much easier to understand the concept of assembly. These visual aids helped me gain a clearer perspective on how to arrange the leaves for the most realistic and polished look.

This is how I completed my first crochet project .I’d love to hear your thoughts in comments and any tips you might have for future crochet projects.

Pot for my Snake Plant

This week, my focus was on completing the crochet pot for my snake plant. After searching for different resources, I finally found a pattern that worked well for the pot, and I was determined to finish the project. I used a combination of YouTube tutorials, blogs, and even a crochet e-book which guided me through the process.

Working Through the Challenges

The main challenge of this week was shaping the pot and ensuring that the stitches were consistent. I had to keep my tension even to avoid any unnecessary stretching, especially when crocheting in the round. At first, I faced some issues with the size as it was not perfectly round. However, through patience and troubleshooting, I successfully adapted the pattern, using a combination of stitch counts and different techniques to achieve the right shape.

Adding different colored yarn

To make my pot stand out, I decided to make an addition to the pattern by using two different yarns. This gave the pot a unique, two-toned look, adding more character and texture. The combination of yarn colors provided a nice contrast that made the pot more visually interesting, and it was a fun way to personalize the project.

Finding an E-book for crocheting

I relied on a variety of resources to help me with the pot construction:

  • YouTube Tutorials: The tutorials I used earlier were helpful, gave me a solid foundation to start from.

  • Blogs: I researched for a blog , it helped me to understand more about stitch consistency and how to adjust tension.
  • E-Book: I also found a helpful e-book titled Whimsical Stitches, which included patterns for planters that were similar to what I needed. The e-book provided clear, detailed instructions that helped me to revolve the issue of shape of pot as there is clear description for number and type of stiches in each row, material required, abbreviations, pattern notes which assisted me to complete my pot.

My Reflection on the Learning Process

Looking back on this process, I feel a great sense of accomplishment. While there were moments of frustration, especially when things didn’t turn out as planned, I pushed through with perseverance and curiosity. I learned that crochet is a journey of trial and error, and the key is to not give up.

Next week, I will create the dirt for the plant, stuff the pot with fiberfill to give it proper shape, and assemble the leaves.

Crocheting the Base of the Pot: Overcoming Challenges

This week, I began working on the base of my crochet pot by following a video tutorial, excited to see how it would take shape.

The tutorial first introduced the magic ring technique before moving on to the base. In This tutorial she used a stitch marker to keep track of rounds. Since I didn’t have an actual stitch marker, I initially used a piece of white-colored yarn to mark my stitches.

After completing two rounds, I noticed that my base was curling at the edges, but I continued to round three, hoping it would flatten out. However, the curling persisted, making me realize that something was wrong.

To troubleshoot, I searched for additional resources and remade the magic ring, continuing with the same tutorial. Unfortunately, after three rounds, the base still turned wavy and curled at the edges. I found another video on making a crochet pot, but it didn’t help me resolve my issue.  Feeling frustrated, I revisited the blog I had used for making the leaves, but it did not have any information on creating a flat circular base. I also realized that I had to replace the white yarn marker frequently, which was quite tedious. After experimenting with alternatives, I found that using a bobby pin was a much easier and more effective solution. It stayed in place securely and was easy to move as I progressed through each round, making my crocheting process much smoother.

Determined to find a solution, I explored multiple videos, trying different approaches. Eventually, I found a tutorial that explained the technique in greater detail.

I realized that adjusting the stitch count could help keep the base flat. Instead of using six single crochets (SC) in the magic ring, I increased the count to eight stitches and switched from single crochet (SC) to double crochet (DC) for the rounds.

These modifications finally helped me create a flat and stable base after struggling through several attempts!

Reflection on My Learning Process

This experience taught me the importance of patience and problem-solving while learning a new skill. At first, I felt discouraged when my base kept curling despite following the tutorial. However, by exploring multiple resources, comparing techniques, and making adjustments, I was able to identify the problem and find a solution. Through trial and error, I learned that adjusting stitch count and stitch type can make a big difference in shaping a crochet piece. This process made me appreciate the flexibility of crochet—there’s often more than one way to achieve the same outcome!

Reflection on YouTube Tutorials
While working on the base of my crochet pot, I relied on multiple YouTube tutorials, each offering a different experience.

The first tutorial was helpful in demonstrating the steps visually, but it lacked a clear explanation of how to properly increase stitch count in the third row.

The second tutorial was too fast-paced, as the instructor quickly demonstrated a single stitch and then skipped ahead to show the final result. This made it hard to follow along, and I struggled to understand the exact technique she used.

Finally, the last tutorial provided the clearest instructions. The instructor explained each step in detail, demonstrated the process slowly, and even included written instructions within the video. This combination of visual and written guidance made it much easier to understand the pattern and correct my mistakes.

Completing the Shape and Detailing of Snake Plant Leaves

This week, I worked on wiring and edging to give my crochet snake plant a structured and polished look                                                                                                              1. Preparing the Wire for Each Leaf:

    1. I cut three wire lengths—10 inches for small leaves, 12 inches for medium,  and 14 inches for large leaves.
    2. Bending the wire slightly (without pinching it) gave the   leaves a natural curve.

2.  Adding the Edging for a Clean Finish:

I started by watching the video, which introduced the concept of edging, but it  didn’t provide much detail on the actual process. To learn how to properly create a neat border, I followed the  tutorial, which explained the importance of adding three stitches at the corners to keep the edges looking clean and even.

 

 

I also looked at the blog from last week, which helped                                         reinforce my understanding of the different stitch techniques used in leaf formation.

I applied these techniques to my snake plant leaves to ensure the border looked uniform and professional.

Reflections on This Week’s Learning:

At first, I found it really difficult to hold the wire and yarn together while crocheting. During my first attempt, the wire that I left at the end accidentally got inserted into the leaf, making it look messy and uneven.

After struggling with this, I turned to different resources to troubleshoot my issue. The first video I watched provided a visual guide for adding edging but didn’t go into enough detail about how to hold and manage the wire properly. This led me to search for additional tutorials, and that’s when I found the second video, which focused specifically on creating neat and professional-looking borders.

This second resource was incredibly helpful because it explained why adding extra stitches at the corners is necessary to prevent tight or uneven edges. After watching it, I tried again, and this time, my edges looked much neater, and the wire stayed in place properly. This experience reinforced how valuable it is to explore multiple resources when learning a new skill.

Now that the leaves are wired and edged, I’m excited to make planter/ pot for my snake plant next week.

Snake Plant Crochet: Leaf Creation & Learning Reflections

This week, I focused on making the leaves for my crochet snake plant. Since the plant has three sizes of leaves (small, medium, and large) and two striping variations, I wanted to challenge myself by making all the different types for added character.

Steps I Followed

1.Practicing Consistency:                                                      Stitch Tension: I focused on keeping my tension even so that all the leaves looked smooth and well-formed. Uneven tension could make some leaves stiffer or looser than others.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Size & Shape Matching: To ensure all my leaves were proportionate, I frequently compared them side by side, adjusting my stitches as needed to maintain uniformity.

 

 

 

2. Following the Leaf Pattern:
I started by crocheting the small, medium, and large leaves for my snake plant. The original pattern included striping variations, but I kept it simple by using one solid color for all my leaves. This made it easier to focus on the structure and technique rather than managing multiple color changes. I carefully followed the stitch count for each row, making sure to shape the leaves correctly.

 

Reflection on This Week’s Learning

I really enjoyed following the blog I used as a reference for crocheting my snake plant. The blogger did an amazing job explaining each step clearly by including pictures, which made it easier to understand. I also appreciated that there was a PDF version available for the correct pattern, making it more convenient to follow along.

One of the things I found particularly helpful was how the blogger broke down the pattern based on the size of the leaves. She explained the number of rows, types of stitches, and the stitch count for each row, which gave me a clearer understanding of how to shape the leaves properly.

However, I decided to skip the color variation part because I want my snake plant to be in one solid color. Even though the original pattern includes different striping effects, I liked keeping it simple for my project.

This week, I feel more comfortable with crochet patterns, and I’m excited to move on to the next steps of wiring and edging the leaves next week!


Exploring the Basics of Crochet, My journey with Yarn and Stitches

This week, I began to learn the fundamentals of Crochet. Crochet is an art form that involves creating fabric by using a hooked tool (a crochet hook) and yarn or thread 

Tools I required:

Crochet Hook

Yarn                                                                     

Learning the Basics: I started by familiarizing myself with the basic techniques and stitches in crochet. Here’s a breakdown

How to Hold the Yarn and Hook: At first, I was a bit confused about how to hold the yarn and crochet hook. After trying several ways, I finally found what worked for me. I hold the hook in my right hand (since I’m right-handed) and the yarn in my left hand. There are two common grips for the hook: the Pencil Grip and the Knife Grip. I personally prefer the Knife Grip as it felt more natural for me.

How to Tie a Slip Knot: I learned that the slip knot is the first step in starting a crochet project. It’s the knot that gets the yarn onto the hook so you can start crocheting.

Yarn Over: The “yarn over” (YO) is essential for  almost every stitch in crochet.   It’s when you wrap the yarn over the hook to create the loop needed for stitches. It’s one of the most important  steps to master early on.

Making a Starting Chain: The starting chain is the foundation for many crochet projects. I learned how to chain a series of stitches to create the base for my project.

Working into the Chain: When I started working into the chain, I found that the front of the chain looks like a series of interlocking Vs, while the back has bumps. This helped me figure out where to insert the hook for the next row.

How to Single Crochet (SC): The single crochet stitch was my first stitch to learn. It’s the shortest stitch in crochet and one of the most basic. I spent a lot of time practicing this stitch.

How to Turn the Work: After completing a row, I learned that you need to turn  the work and chain 1 before starting the next row. The turning chain doesn’t count as a stitch, so I had to be mindful of this.

How to Work in Row 2: To continue crocheting, I turned the work, chained 1, and inserted the hook into the last stitch of the previous row. After yarning over and pulling through, I completed the single crochet stitch. This took               a bit of practice, but eventually, I got the hang of it.

How to Fasten Off: After completing the crochet swatch, I learned how to fasten off. This involves cutting the yarn, pulling the yarn through the loop on the hook, and tightening it to prevent the stitches from unraveling.

Slip stich : I used the following three steps to complete the Slip stich.

 

 

                           

Reflection on My Experience:

At first, I struggled with positioning the yarn and hook, but after several attempts, I found a method that felt most comfortable for me. When making the second and third rows, my stitches looked a little funny. It took me a few tries, but I eventually made the stitches more uniform and cleaner. The process of trial and error helped me build confidence, and I began to feel more comfortable with the techniques.

One thing I found challenging was the slip stitch. It felt a bit awkward, but I’m planning to keep practicing it so I can get more comfortable.

 Reflection on crochet  Blogger:

The blogger has done an excellent job of clearly explaining the fundamentals of crochet. I truly appreciate how she breaks down each step in detail, making it simple for beginners to follow. Every strategy is fully described because of the way she arranges the material into distinct points.
One of the things I liked the most about her post is that she included images at every stage. Visual aids make a huge difference in learning a hands-on skill like crochet. Additionally, she goes beyond just explaining stitches as she has provided guidance on choosing the right crochet hook and yarn size, which is essential for beginners.

Another great feature is the inclusion of direct links to purchase the recommended materials. This eliminates the need for readers to look for the appropriate tools individually, making it convenient. Overall, this blog is well-organized, educational, and beneficial for anyone to start their crochet journey.

Reflection on YouTuber:

The YouTuber did a great job of describing the various ways to hold the yarn, four distinct techniques assist everyone to find the most comfortable and natural grip.
Her use of large-sized yarn in the demos was one of the things that I found most useful. This ensured that even the smallest details were obvious and made every step extremely transparent and simple to follow. She also provided an insightful description of yarn tension. She gave viewers thorough instructions on how to keep the tension at the ideal level, which is essential for reliable stitches.

Everything described in her video was quite educational and easy for beginners to follow. Her meticulousness and learning to crochet was made easier by her careful presentation and attention to detail.

What’s Next?

Now that I’ve covered the basics, I’m ready to take the next step in my crochet journey. For next week, I’ll be making leaves for my crochet snake plant. This will allow me to apply what I’ve learned so far, practice shaping techniques like increasing and decreasing, and explore creating more complex designs.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

A Glimpse at my learning Adventure. Crochet Garden;Growing with Yarn !

 

Hi Everyone!

Since childhood, I have been fascinated by arts and crafts. I eagerly participated in every school competition and still cherish those moments. I remember one competition where we had to use yarn to create something—whether through knitting, crochet, or another art form.  I learned knitting at that time, but I also wanted to try crochet. Unfortunately, I did not get the chance back then.

Another fondest memory is watching my grandmother crochet. She taught me how to make and hold a crochet hook, but that’s as far as my skills go—I have never explored crochet in further detail. This project is providing an opportunity to dive deeper and learn every detail about crocheting.

This project is also an exciting chance for me to explore blogging for the very first time. It is a fantastic way to combine two new skills—crocheting and blogging—and share my  journey of learning. In this era of technology, sharing the learning journey online is an excellent way to connect with others. Blogging will allow me to share my journey with a wider audience, receive feedback, and connect with others who share similar interests. I hope to gain valuable insights through reviews, feedback and comments and improve myself along the way.

I have decided to combine my love for plants and flowers as well as background in botany with this project to create something meaningful. My goal for this project is to crochet a snake plant! I am thrilled to take on this creative challenge, as it connects my passion for nature with this new craft.

To achieve this, I will break my learning journey into milestones:

  1. Week 1: Learn basic crochet stitches (chain, single crochet, double crochet).
  2. Week 2: Begin working on leaf shapes for the snake plant.
  3. Week 3: Begin working on planter
  4. Week 4: Assemble the leaves and pot for the final plant design.

I will be using resources like YouTube tutorials (e.g., The Woobles), crochet blogs  to guide me. Each week, I will document my progress, share photos and videos, and reflect on my learning process.

I can not  wait to get started on this adventure and share my progress with all of you. If you have any crochet tips or resources, I’d love to hear them in the comments! Let’s make this journey a fun and collaborative experience!