>> I have a few blankets saved on Pinterest that use flat animal heads on some of the squares for added interest :) There is also a pattern for a hexagon blanket/fawn lovey that I really want to try. <<

Go for it!

>> Spheres sound like a good place to start. I sort of did the beginning of a sphere for the pokeball bag, so it shouldn't be too much harder. <<

There is a subtle but definite difference between the typical ball (rounded ends but a flat middle) and a proper sphere in creation, shape, and performance.

>> I've actually used the pattern Shiv described to make Christmas ornaments of my own. It was a surprisingly easy pattern.<<

*glee*

Well, you validated my vocation for the day. :D