Happy Birthday, Jennifer L!

I finished this crochet project a while ago, but I couldn't post about it because it is a birthday present and the recipient reads my blog. Today is my friend, Jen's birthday, so I can finally reveal it. In my sleep deprived stupor, I forgot to mail it out on Friday, so it will be mailed on Monday. I hope Jen will use it on her desk at work to hold paperclips and other desk top accessories.
If you are a fan of the game Katamari Damacy, then you should give this pattern a try. Though I have to warn you that it's labor intensive. My poor hands can attest to that.

First you crochet 2 halves for the sphere and then you need to crochet 14 of those nubs. I found it easier to sew on the nubs after sewing and stuffing the sphere first, but the directions differ. There is a lot of sewing in this project so be prepared.
I also would follow the original directions of what brand of magnets to use. You need really strong magnets in order for the Katamari Ball to hold anything, so don't skimp on that. The magnets can be quite pricey because you need 2 magnets in each nub, totaling 28 magnets. The magnets comes in packs of 8, so you will need 3 1/2 packs of magnets. I found the Darice 3/4" magnets at Joann's, but they didn't have enough, so I ordered some from HERE and got them promptly.

Pattern: Free Magnetic Katamari Pattern by Amy Shimel
Hooks: Size US G/4.00mm and US 00/3.50mm
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft Brites "Blue Mint" and Red Heart Super Saver "Banana Berry"
Helpful Tutorials: Magic Adjustable Ring and Double Ring

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Even though Melody is too small to fit into the onesie or hat yet, she has been wearing the socks all week to bring the Patriots good luck. This was a gift set from Uncle Scott. GO PATS!!! (I wonder who Melody will root for when she grows up since she is born in NYC, but her parents are from New England.)