We are plant people! We love our plants. Over the years, we have been building our plant family one at a time. Presently, we have between 30-40 plants that we have either bought, inherited, or propagated. Recently, we have discovered our propagated tiny Swiss Cheese Monstera had gnats flying and running around in the soil.
macro close-up of gnat taken with my iphone 13 pro max
Our baby Monstera plant
We tried several home remedies such as using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water to water the soil, completely drying out the soil, setting apple cider vinegar and dish soap traps and more; all to rid the soil of these nasty pests to no avail. Soon, we noticed other plants started having issues. It was time to go up a notch in our pest control.
Bring out the heavy-duty pest control.
After several days of researching some of the best ways to rectify this issue, we found that most plant enthusiasts used various sprays or water treatment that did not harm the plants but combatted only the bug issue. We hoped that their tips would help so we went to Amazon and ordered a few things to help tackle our issues.
Sticky gnat traps: These traps are placed into the soil and have a VERY sticky surface to capture the gnats. You can find these HERE.
Neem Oil: Kills eggs, larvae, and adult stages of MANY plant invader insects. You can use it safely on plants and is more organic than some other plant pesticides. Find product HERE.
We are currently treating our plants with the three above products and have seen some mild results initially. We hope these products work and we look forward to happy and healthy plants for years to come.
Any Advice?
Now that you are learning about our plant issues, tell us what you would do. How would you treat this issue? Do you have any tricks or tips to share with us? Have you dealt with this before? We are always trying to educate ourselves and look forward to your feedback!
Happy Planting!
Shannon and Fuad
We have affiliate links in this post and do receive a small stipend if purchased. #ad
I’m going to “bug” you a little bit to tell you this blog is “crawling” with something new for your crochet hook! This cuddly Caterpillar Lovey project will provide an infant comfort and security! This silly, lovable little guy makes me smile every time I look at him and it’s sure to be a big hit with the lil’ ones!
Make it in as many colors as you’d like!! The possibilities are endless!!
Follow along with this video tutorial to learn how to make this lovey:
Please check out the new beginning graphic designed and developed by my brother Nabeel. He and his wife own and operate NFD Graphics. Please hop over to their Facebook page and show them some love! For all your graphic and video/logo design needs be sure to contact them today! http://www.nfdgraphics.com
Pattern:
“Designed by Nadia Fuad You *may* sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my website YARNutopia.com.
Please do not copy, sell, and/or post this pattern and claim it as your own.
You can buy any of the items in this kit. Buy all or buy one item. Check it out to see the supplies you can get online to make this Lovey!
NOTES:
-This project uses less than 200 yards of yarn.
-Use a smaller hook to make these smaller
-Use a bigger hook to make these bigger
-Watch the FULL video tutorial for visual instructions for each row and tips on how to make this smaller and bigger.
-Weave in all the ends as you go so you don’t have to weave them all in at the very end.
-If the instructions above are confusing, please message me on Facebook, and I will answer any questions you may have. Please be specific in your questions. Thank you!!
-The measurements for this Lovey is 18 inches but you can make yours as big as you’d like!
Special stitches:
Ch(s): chain(s)
YO: Yarn Over
St(s): Stitch(es)
BLO: Back Loops Only
prev.: Previous
Sl st: slip stitch
SC: Single Crochet
SC2TOG: Single crochet decrease
DC: Double Crochet
Pattern:
If you have any confusion or difficulty with reading this pattern, please watch the video tutorial to have visual instructions.
Lovey:
Ch 4
Rnd 1: 2 DC in 4th Ch from hook, [Ch 2, 3 DC in same CH] 3 times, ch 1, SC in beg. ch 3, Ch 2, Turn.
Rnd 2: DC in same corner sp, *DC in each st until next corner, [2DC, ch 2, 2 DC] in corner, repeat from * around put 2 DC around SC from previous round to finish off beg. corner. Ch 1, SC in Ch 2, Ch 2, Turn.
Round 3-15: Repeat Round 2 Change colors after Round 13
See video tutorial for visual instructions
Fasten off, weave in all ends.
Eyes:
With White
Ch 2 Rnd 1: 6 SC in 2nd ch from hook. (6)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing
Embroider Black Dots for the pupils
Antennae: Make 2 With Yellow
Ch 2 Work in BLO and in continuous rounds Rnd 1: 6 SC in 2nd ch from hook. (6) Rnd 2: 2 SC in each st around. (12) Rnd 3: [SC2TOG] 6 times. (6) Rnd 4-8: SC in each st around. (6)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing.
Head:
With Glow Worm
Ch 2 Work in BLO and in continuous rounds Rnd 1: 6 SC in 2nd ch from hook. (6) Rnd 2: 2 SC in each st around. (12) Rnd 3: [2SC in next st, SC in next st] 6 times. (18) Rnd 4: [2SC in next st, SC in next 2 sts] 6 times. (24) Rnds 5-6: SC in each st around. (24) Rnd 7: [2SC in next st, SC in next 3 sts] 6 times. (30) Rnd 8: SC in each st around. (30) Rnd 9: [2SC in next st, SC in next 4 sts] 6 times. (36) Rnds 10-11: SC in each st around. (36) Assembly Step:
Sew on the antennae and the eyes
Continue crocheting the head Rnd 12: [SC2TOG, SC in next 4 sts] 6 times. (30) Rnd 13: [SC2TOG, SC in next 3 sts] 6 times. (24) Rnd 14: [SC2TOG, SC in next 2 sts] 6 times. (18)
Stuff Head Rnd 15: [SC2TOG, SC in next st] 6 times. (12) Rnd 16: [SC2TOG] 6 times. (6)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing.
Feet: Make 6
With Jade
Ch 2 Rnd 1: 6 SC in 2nd ch from hook. (6)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing
Body Circles:
Make 1 in Buff (4 Rounds)
Make 1 in Pumpkin (4 Rounds)
Make 1 in Spring Green (3 Rounds)
Make 1 in Yellow (2 Rounds)
Ch 2 Rnd 1: 6 SC in 2nd ch from hook, sl st to 1st SC, ch 1. (6) Rnd 2: 2 SC in each st around, Sl st to 1st SC, ch 1. (12) Rnd 3: [2SC in next st, SC in next st] 6 times, sl st to 1st SC, ch 1. (18) Rnd 4: [2SC in next st, SC in next 2 sts] 6 times, Sl st to 1st SC. (24)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing
Assembly Step:
Sew Body to Lovey and all the body pieces as well. Use the photos as a guide to sew on your pieces.
Enjoy!!
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed.
The yarn provided for this pattern is courtesy of Red Heart Yarns
Ooooh I just tried out the new Scrubby Cotton Yarn by Red Heart Yarns and made these fun Butterfly Scrubby Washcloths. This yarn provides a unique texture that makes it perfect for household and bath! What a fun and easy gift this would make all-year-round for anyone on your gift giving list! Make a set Scrubby Butterflies and pair them with nice soaps for a fun homemade gift that comes right from the hands and heart!
The texture appears to be abrasive, but it has a soft feel. The fibers provide a bit of exfoliating characteristics but it becomes softer when wet! You will enjoy this yarn for your household needs. You may find this yarn poses a couple challenges in the video tutorial, and it was a bit of an issue showcasing the stitches. Hopefully you can follow along and make these great washcloths today!
Sew two of these washcloths together and keep an opening at the bottom to create a unique wash mitt. So many creative ideas are provided by one great product! If you are going for the ultimate crafting project, not only can you make these washcloths, but you can try making your very own soap or soap products to go with this homemade gift theme!
Not a fan of scrubby yarn? Try this pattern using 100% cotton for fun washcloths without the texture! No matter what type of yarn you choose, these cloths are sure to be a big hit!
Watch this video tutorial to learn how to make this Scrubby:
My dad will continue to be the videographer, editor, and photographer for our videos when I move away.
Support YARNutopia today so we can continue to bring you clear, quality crochet tutorials even after I move into my new home!
There will be an added expense of more travel and hopefully this won’t deter our ability to provide consistent videos on a weekly basis.
Please check out the new beginning graphic designed and developed by my brother Nabeel. He and his wife own and operate NFD Graphics. Please hop over to their Facebook page and show them some love! For all your graphic and video/logo design needs be sure to contact them today! www.nfdgraphics.com
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Share your work on Facebook!
Add me on Snapchat: YARNutopia
Follow me on Instagram
Visit My Ravelry Store and add this to your Favorites!
Follow me on Twitter: @YARNutopia
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
Pattern:
Designed by Nadia Fuad You *may* sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my website YARNutopia.com.
Please do not copy, sell, and/or post this pattern and claim it as your own.
You can buy any of the items in this kit. Buy all or buy one item. Check it out to see the supplies you can get online to make this scrubby!
NOTES:
-This project uses approximately 100 yards of yarn.
-Use a smaller hook to make these smaller
-Use a bigger hook to make these bigger
-Watch the FULL video tutorial for visual instructions for each piece
-Weave in all the ends as you go so you don’t have to weave them all in at the very end.
-This cloth is 10 inches at the widest point and 7 inches at the tallest point
-Use 2 strands of yarn at the same time in this project!!
Special stitches:
Ch(s): chain(s)
YO: Yarn Over
St(s): Stitch(es)
prev.: Previous
Sl st: slip stitch
SC: Single Crochet
HDC: Half Double Crochet
DC: Double Crochet
TR: Treble Crochet
Beg. Popcorn: Ch up 3, 3 DC in same sp, remove hook from loop, insert hook in 1st ch up 3 of grouping, place loop back on hook and pull through. (see video tutorial for specific instructions)
Popcorn: 4 DC in same st, remove hook from loop, insert hook in 1st st of grouping, place loop back on hook and pull through. (see video tutorial for specific instructions)
Pattern:
If you have any confusion or difficulty with reading this pattern, please watch the video tutorial to have visual instructions.
Butterfly: With 2 Strands of yarn at the same time
Piece Number 1:
**Make 2**
With Jade:
Ch 10 Row 1: SC in 2nd ch from hook, HDC in next, DC in next 5 chs, HDC in next ch, 3 SC in last ch, working on opposite side of foundation ch, HDC in next st, HDC in next 5 sts, HDC in next, 2 SC in last st, Sl st to 1st SC, turn. (20 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, 2 SC in middle SC of 3SC grouping, [TR in next st, SC in next st] 5 times, TR in next st, 2SC in middle SC of point, [TR in next st, SC in next st] 5 times. Sl st to 1st SC. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as DC), DC in next st, 2 DC in each TR, 1 DC in each SC around. Put 2 DC in each SC of the point, Sl st to ch up 3. (See video tutorial for visual instructions)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing.
Piece Number 2:
**Make 2**
With Denim:
Ch 2 Rnd 1: 6 SC in 2nd Ch from hook, sl st to 1st SC (Sl st counts as a stitch). (7)
Rnd 2: Ch 3, Beg. Popcorn in same st, ch 2, *Popcorn in next, ch 2, Repeat from * around working last popcorn in Sl st from last round. (See video tutorial for visual instructions) (7 popcorn sts made)
Row 3: Sl st into Ch 2 sp, Ch up 3, 3 DC in same sp, 4 DC in each Ch 2 sp around. Sl st to beg. ch up 3. (28 DC)
Fasten off with long tail for sewing.
Piece Number 3:
With Lavender:
**Make 1**
Ch 16 Row 1: SC in 2nd ch from hook, HDC in next, DC in next 5 chs, SC in next, DC in next 5 chs, HDC in next ch, SC in next ch, (Make loop next), Ch 4, Sl st back into the base of last SC made, Turn work, 5 SC in loop, Sl st to last SC made. Fasten off, Weave in all ends, closing any gaps. (See video tutorial)
Assembly Step:
Using the video tutorial for visual instructions, Sew all the pieces together to look like a butterfly. Weave in all ends
Enjoy!!
This post contains affiliate links, which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase. That means if you click on any link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed. Thank you for all your support in clicking the links in my blog!! You all are so amazing!! ~Nadia
The yarn provided for this pattern is courtesy of Red Heart Yarns
I created this Snail’s Pace Granny Square design to add to our 365 Days of Granny Squares project. It uses variety of crochet stitches to create a snail in a square! It’s for times in your life when you feel like you’re moving at a snail’s pace, but hey, at least you’re moving forward! I hope you enjoy making your square!
A couple disclaimers before you start: Be sure to check your tension and use the correct size hook for your square. I demonstrate with an H-5.00mm crochet hook in the video tutorial, but you can make yours bigger or smaller by using a bigger or smaller hook. Also, if yours turns out wonky when you are finished, you may need to block this square to make it nice and flat.
Follow along with this video tutorial to learn how to make this granny square:
My dad will continue to be the videographer, editor, and photographer for our videos when I move away.
Support YARNutopia today so we can continue to bring you clear, quality crochet tutorials even after I move into my new home!
There will be an added expense of more travel and hopefully this won’t deter our ability to provide consistent videos on a weekly basis.
**You can always contact me via Facebook if you have any problems with the pattern. I am happy to help if you have any questions along the way.
***You can sell anything you make from my patterns, please just link back to my website YARNutopia.com. Thank you!
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Share your work on Facebook!
Add me on Snapchat: YARNutopia
Follow me on Instagram
Visit My Ravelry Store and add this to your Favorites!
Follow me on Twitter: @YARNutopia
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
Pattern:
Designed by Nadia Fuad You *may* sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my website YARNutopia.com.
Please do not copy, sell, and/or post this pattern and claim it as your own.
NOTES:
-You can use a smaller or larger hook to make this square depending on your tension. I wouldn’t use anything larger than an I-5.5mm Crochet Hook though.
-The finished square measures 6.5 inches.
-This square is worked from the center outward
If you have any confusion or difficulty with reading this pattern, please watch the video tutorial to have visual instructions.
With color A, Ch 4, sl st to 1st ch to form a ring.
Rnd 1: Ch up 1, 3 sc in ring, pull up loop and drop, with color B, 3 sc in ring (work in a continuous round)
Rnd 2: 2 HDC in next st, 2 B3 in next, 2 B3 in next, 1 B3 in next st, pull up loop and drop, Go back to color A, ch 1, [sc in next st, 2sc in next st] 5 times, 2sc in next 2 sts
Rnd 3: Put color B loop on hook, 2 B4 in next 14 sts, fasten off color B, pick up loop from color A, 1 HDC in next 21 sts, ch 4, sl st into 2nd ch from hook, sc in next ch, hdc in next ch, hdc around hdc post of previous stitch, HDC in the next 7 sts, LDC in next 4 sts from previous round, Ch 3, sl st into next st, ch 6, DC4TOG over Chain, sl st to the ch 3 that you sl st’d to the spiral. Fasten off.
Rnd 4: Start in 2nd st to the right of the tail: CH 3, DC in same st, DC in next st, DC in the HDC that’s worked around the post (See video tutorial), [DC, ch 2, DC] in next st, DC in next 7 sts, [DC, ch 2, DC] in next st, DC in next st, HDC in next st, SC in next st, CH 1, DC in next st after the head, DC in next 3 sts, [DC, ch 2, DC] in next st, DC in next 7 sts, [DC, ch 2, DC] in next st, DC in last 3 sts.
Rnd 5: Ch up 3, DC in each st around, [2 DC, ch 2, 2DC] in corners
Rnd 6: Repeat round 5
Fasten off.
Antennae:
Ch 3, sl st into 3rd ch from hook, ch 8, sl st in 3rd ch from hook, fasten off with long tail. sew to square, (See video tutorial for visual instructions)
Enjoy!!
This post contains affiliate links, which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase. That means if you click on any link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed. Thank you for all your support in clicking the links in my blog!! You all are so amazing!! ~Nadia
The yarn provided for this pattern is courtesy of Red Heart Yarns
