purlJam

# Granny Stitch Bauble

**Difficulty Level:** Intermediate
**Date:** October 26, 2023

## Description
A vintage-style Christmas bauble constructed from two "Sunburst" style granny stitch circles. These motifs are worked in the round and joined with a decorative edge. This project is perfect for using up scrap yarn.

## Materials & Tools
*   **Yarn Weight:** DK (Double Knit). approximately 10-15g total.
    *   *Suggestion:* Cotton DK provides the best stitch definition, but Acrylic/Wool blends work well too.
*   **Hook Size:** 3.5mm (Note: We use a hook slightly smaller than the standard 4.0mm for DK to create a tighter fabric that holds stuffing better).
*   **Notions:**
    *   Tapestry needle for weaving ends.
    *   Scissors.
    *   **Internal Support (Crucial):** A 6cm or 7cm plastic craft bauble insert, OR a blown-up small balloon, OR fabric scrap roughly the same colour as the yarn to line the inside if using poly-fill stuffing. This prevents stuffing from showing through the granny stitch holes.

## Tension (Gauge)
Tension is not critical for this project. However, after Round 3, your circle should measure approximately 6.5cm to 7cm in diameter.
*   *If circle is too small:* Use a 4.0mm hook.
*   *If circle is too big:* Use a 3.0mm hook.

## Terminology & Abbreviations
This pattern uses **UK English** crochet terminology.

*   **ch:** chain
*   **sl st:** slip stitch
*   **dc:** double crochet (equivalent to US single crochet)
*   **tr:** treble crochet (equivalent to US double crochet)
*   **st(s):** stitch(es)
*   **sp:** space
*   **beg:** beginning
*   **Cluster:** A group of treble crochets worked into the same space.

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## Instructions

### Part 1: Granny Circles (Make 2)

**Note on Colour:** You may change colour for every round or keep it solid. Fasten off and rejoin yarn in a space if changing colours. If keeping the same colour, sl st to the next space to begin the round.

**Round 1 (Foundation):**
Start with a magic ring (or ch 4 and sl st to first ch to form a ring).
Ch 3 (counts as first tr), 11 tr into the ring. Sl st to top of beg ch-3.
`[Math: 1 (ch3) + 11 tr = 12 sts total]`

**Round 2 (The Pairs):**
*Note: We are working into the spaces **between** the posts of the stitches from the previous round, not into the top loops.*
Sl st into the first sp between trs. Ch 3 (counts as 1 tr), 1 tr in same sp.
2 tr in each sp around.
Sl st to top of beg ch-3.
`[Math: 12 spaces x 2 tr = 24 sts total]`

**Round 3 (The Granny Clusters):**
Sl st to the next sp between the 2-tr groups.
Ch 3 (counts as 1 tr), 2 tr in same sp.
3 tr in each sp around.
Sl st to top of beg ch-3. Fasten off and weave in ends.
`[Math: 12 spaces x 3 tr = 36 sts total]`

*Repeat Instructions for the second circle.*

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### Part 2: Assembly & Joining

**Step 1: Alignment**
Place the two circles with **Wrong Sides** facing each other (Right Sides facing out). Align the spaces between the clusters.

**Step 2: The Join (Round 4)**
You will work through **both layers** simultaneously to seam them.

1.  Attach yarn (in a contrasting colour if desired) to any space between clusters, going through both circles.
2.  Ch 1 (does not count as st), 2 dc in the same sp (working through both layers).
3.  2 dc in each sp around.
4.  **Stop** when you have completed approximately ¾ of the circle.

**Step 3: Inserting the Bauble**
Insert your plastic bauble, balloon, or stuffing (inside a fabric scrap) into the pocket you have created.
*Tip: If using a plastic bauble, ensure the plastic loop is at the top where you will finish the round.*

**Step 4: Closing**
Continue working 2 dc in each remaining sp through both layers, enclosing the bauble.
`[Math: 12 spaces x 2 dc = 24 dc total around the edge]`

**Step 5: Hanging Loop**
When you reach the start of the round:
1.  Sl st to the first dc.
2.  Ch 20 (or desired length for hanging loop).
3.  Sl st back into the same st to secure the loop.

Fasten off and weave in the final end securely.

## Technical Notes
*   **Sizing Adjustment:** If you are using a larger bauble insert (8cm+), you may need to add a Round 4 before joining.
    *   *Optional Round 4:* (2 tr, ch 1, 2 tr) in each sp around. Then proceed to Assembly.
*   **Stiffness:** If not using a solid insert (plastic or styrofoam), you may wish to starch the finished object to help it hold its spherical shape.