Made: Hello Kitty Crochet Hat

My first crochet hat: free pattern from Crochet in Color

I've been slacking off on my posting. Just got back to work and it's been tiring, but I'm still crocheting along to keep me in zen mode.

Never thought I would make anything Hello Kitty, since I've always been more of a Little Twin Stars girl, but  my first hat is a Hello Kitty one, using the free pattern shared by Crochet in Color (thanks!) and it always feels good to be able to do something for your friends. Don't you agree?
Anyway, I would love some advice on how you determine the size and when to stop increasing. My first attempt, even though it seemed to be measured right, was way too big, so big that it fits me, even though I was aiming for a toddler hat. Now I'm waiting to hear if my second attempt fits or not. Crossing my fingers.
Here are some other free Hello Kitty crochet hat patterns I found: Inspirednest.ca • Crochet Creative Creations

Free Crochet Pattern Roundup: Shark Week

I don't understand what the deal is with Shark Week, but here are some really cool shark crochet patterns. Thanks again for sharing them, you generous people!

Look at this adorable shark hat for the whole family.

Free pattern from Crochet Today

Love the mouth on this shark amigurumi. The pattern includes photo tutorial on how to do the open mouth

Free pattern from Karen's Knittin' Crap

Yikes, scuba diver, watch out for that shark

Free pattern from Yarn Juleps on the Veranda

How about something not as scary?

Free pattern from Rikka Mitsam (PDF)

Free Pattern of the Day: Sushi Pencil Case

Even if you're not looking for school supplies for your kids, you can probably find a use for this versatile homemade case.
I've been craving for sushi these days (I'm always craving for sushi).

Free pattern from Green, Broke & Living in Kits
Two versions of sushi

If that's a little too intense for ya, here are some more regular looking ones.

Free pattern from CoatsCrafts.co.uk

Free pattern from K and J Dolls Blog

If this is your first time making a case or a pouch, you may want to check out this tutorial on adding zippers (and also lining, if you're adventurous) to your crochet work.

Double Crochet Pattern: Christmas and Stormtrooper Bell

Even though amigurumi is mainly made with single crochets, you do see patterns that require other stitches, like the double crochet, or "dc" in short.
How to do a double crochet:  video •  photo tutorial
If you're looking for a simple pattern to practise your double crochet, take a look at this simple five-minute Christmas Bell pattern by Handcrafted. Simple to make (they're not kidding about the five-minute part), you can use these bells for Christmas decorations, or a homemade wedding card.
On the website, you'll also find an angel bell, a variation of this pattern. Inspired by that, here's my Stormtrooper Bell.

I used the same pattern, but added a round of single crochet using the black yarn after Round 2. When the bell is done, I sewed the rest on using black yarn. It's alright I guess. Sometimes it looks like a stormtrooper. Sometimes it looks like nothing at all...
What else has a bell shape?

Free Crochet Pattern Roundup: 5 Summer Amigurumi

How's the weather over where you are? It's hot here, and the sun is shining almost everyday.

Free pattern from Yellow, Pink and Sparkly

This bear knows how to take a break from the heat waves.

Free pattern from Red Heart

Maybe he'll meet a beautiful jellyfish.

Free pattern from PlumCakePudding

Watch out for this little pincer guy though.

Free pattern from Nareeoo

And if you're going to join Bear at the beach, don't forget to grab your sandals

Free pattern from Lovely Little Life