Finished Object | Libraryarn Scarf by Claire Makes It

Posted in Blogging, Crochet, From the Stash, Pattern Review by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I just realised I hadn’t yet told you about an actual finished object that I made (loud klaxon sound) – an occasion which seems to be a rather rare thing! So let me celebrate in a post all about the Libraryarn Scarf!

A cosy crocheted Libraryarn Scarf draped over a mannequin, showcasing a stunning mix of stitches and textures. The deep, rich yarn tones contrast beautifully against the lush green ivy backdrop.

In 2023 I decided to treat myself to my first ever yarn advent! And what tempted me, above all else, was Jess’s (from Hook and Cwtch) who was offering the ‘Libraryarn’ Advent, an advent that was completely influenced by books, book covers, and the stories inside. Now after crochet, my favourite thing in the world is reading (as you might be aware from my 2025 Book Blanket Challenge). My two most favourite things were going to be combined – I needed to sign up immediately!!!

Now I’m not going to talk too much about the fantastic advent (because it was), as I’m going to leave that to another post. However, it is relevant I mention it here because, as well as the yarn, we were gifted an exclusive pattern, the Libraryarn Scarf, which had been created in collaboration with Jess, by the lovely Claire of Claire’s Made It.

A close-up of the Libraryarn Scarf highlighting the interplay of raised and openwork stitches. The tactile crochet details are accentuated by soft, natural lighting and a backdrop of green ivy.

Strangely I found myself in a tricky situation. You see as soon as I’d signed up for the advent I had an idea of what I wanted to do with the yarn – and I REALLY wanted to make my design idea! But Claire’s scarf looked fab and I wanted to make that too (oh such crocheter difficulties). Luckily I have a huge stash so I just picked out some more Hook and Cwtch yarn, to remain in keeping with the ‘advent’, and looked forward to starting my new project!

I decided to use just three colours; and I ended up using approximately 100g of ‘Hedwig’, 125g of ‘Duelling Wizards’ and 200g of undyed yarn, all 4ply and all dyed by Jess for previous collections she’d released. As always her use of colours are delightful so I thoroughly enjoyed working with them.

Close-up of the Libraryarn Scarf, revealing intricate crochet stitches and textures that create a story within the fabric. The detailed pattern stands out against the blurred greenery in the background.

The Libraryarn Scarf pattern was really clever, inspired by the shape of a bookmark it combined lots of different stitch patterns for interest. There were stitches I’d used before, and ones that I’d forgotten all about so it was like a lovely discovery of textures as you worked through each section.

I find working on someone else’s pattern very relaxing because all the thinking has been done for me – it’s like giving my brain a holiday. I worked my scarf predominately over the ‘betwixtmas’ period in 2023/24, between Christmas and New Year, so my memories of it are fond ones of being snuggled up on a chair, under a blanket, watching movies with the family as I crocheted away.

A mannequin wears the Libraryarn Scarf outdoors, its beautifully textured crochet design cascading over the shoulders. The ivy-covered wall behind adds a natural, timeless feel to the scene.

I can definitely recommend this pattern, it’s a real library of stitches! Claire’s pattern is now available on Etsy, LoveCrafts and Ravelry. And although you can’t get the specific colourways I used, as Jess tends to work in limited edition colourways, she has a myriad of gorgeous colours to choose from in the Hook and Cwtch Etsy shop and she’s just released her 2025 Advent; A Night at the Ballet (and there’s a few left).

Do you have a favourite finished object that you’ve made recently? I’d love to hear about it – let me know in the comments below.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

1Jan2025

Winter Washcloth | January Blog Hop 2025

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Happy New Year! I’m thrilled to kick off 2025 by joining the Winter Washcloth Crochet Blog Hop once again! From January 1–31, I’ll be one of many designers contributing to this exciting event.

A collage graphic of many of the designs available in the Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2025.

If you’re new to the concept of a crochet blog hop, it’s like an online networking event hosted by members of the crochet blogging community. Think of it as a virtual scavenger hunt where you discover new designers to follow and collect free patterns along the way! You’ll “hop” from one designer’s blog to another to grab the free pattern details. By participating, you’re helping us designers grow our businesses (thank you!), while snagging a free crochet pattern for yourself—win-win!

This particular event is being run by Two Brothers Blankets and will feature 31 fabulous crochet washcloth designs. Crochet washcloths are such a fun and practical project to make – washing things has never been so fun!

Crochet washcloths make an excellent beginner project, but they’re just as enjoyable for seasoned crocheters. These small, practical items are perfect for a quick win, offering that satisfying dopamine boost from completing a project in no time!

A collage graphic of seven different designs available in the Winter Wash Cloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2025.

Starting TODAY, Wednesday, 1 January 2025, a brand-new pattern will be shared daily by 11 PM UK time (6 PM EST). Best of all, you can download each pattern as a free PDF for 24 hours using the provided coupon code!

Of course, I have a brand-new pattern to share that I think you’ll love! I’m keeping the exact date and design a surprise for now—though you’ve probably guessed it’s a washcloth of some sort. Stay tuned, and be sure to follow along on social media for links to the coupon codes to snag each day’s free pattern!

A collage graphic of eight different designs available in the Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2025.

How the event works:

Go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code.
Click the link and scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button.
Download the pattern to your device or library!

Patterns will only be available for 24 hours from 1pm to 1pm GMT (8am to 8am EST) the next day.

If you can’t wait for everyday in January, because you want all the things now, then there is also an option to purchase the exclusive pattern bundle at a saving! This pattern bundle of crochet wash cloths won’t last for long it’s only until the end of January 2025.

The bundle includes all 31 designs featured in the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience.

And that’s a wrap! Whether you grab a free PDF pattern to crochet for yourself or explore an amazing collection of washcloth designs from talented creators, you’re in for a treat. Don’t forget to show some love to my fellow designers as they share their beautiful patterns throughout the blog hop!

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected.

3Dec2024

The Longest Yarn Exhibition: A Spectacular Tribute to Craft and History

Posted in Blogging, Crochet, Days Out by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Today, I had the privilege of visiting the Longest Yarn Exhibition at Stoke Minster, and I’m still buzzing from the experience. This absolutely breath-taking display celebrates craftsmanship, community, and commemoration in the most extraordinary way.

A banner outside Stoke Minister church in Stoke-on-Trent advertising the Longest Yarn exhibition.

The exhibition showcases a knitted and crocheted tribute to D-Day; 80 scenes include the build up in England, the horrors on the Landing Beaches and the bloody inland battles on 6th June 1944 in wool art.

Quite simply it’s a patchwork of storytelling and history woven into every stitch. For me, it felt deeply personal; my granddad landed on Gold Beach on D-Day, and standing before the vibrant, intricate scenes definitely made me think of him.

Inside Stoke Minister we can see some of the 80 display cabinets that make up the scenes of the Longest Yarn exhibition.

I could have easily spent hours photographing every single detail of the exhibition—it was that incredible—but I’ve captured a small sample to share with you here. I have also shared some videos I took on todays Vlogmas reel over on Instagram. Hopefully, these glimpses give you a sense of the wondrous craftmanship that went into creating this spectacular display.

A crocheted pretty French girl tries to distract German soldiers in a tableau from The Longest Yarn exhibition.

The level of detail in the yarn creations was astounding. Created with guidance from historians, retained by the project, to be historically accurate, each scene has been selected by the creator to depict the story of this momentous day in history, each scene unique and made with care.

Close up of an army of knitted soldiers featured in one of the tableaus of The Longest Yarn exhibition

From depictions of soldiers on the beaches to poignant moments captured in yarn that just blew my mind how they had thought to construct them. It was clear how much love and effort went into every piece. I couldn’t help but marvel at how each crocheter and knitter had managed to create such depth and emotion with yarn—it’s nothing short of genius.

Scene from The Longest Yarn exhibition depicting
knitted soldiers are shown in a barracks scene, reading and climbing up onto bunkbeds as they wait for deployment.

Reading up on the the exhibition apparently it began as an idea by a lady called Tansy Forster who admired the post box toppers and yarn bombing events in the UK. She then had the idea that she’d make a topper for her garden wall in Houesville for 80th Anniversary, however mulling it over with a few other folk and some other knitters the whole thing rather grew!

Scene from The Longest Yarn exhibition depicting a crochet war council discussing the D Day landing

Now it’s a work of 80 meters representing 80 years and the 80 days of The Battle of Normandy. The exhibition, created by over 1,000 crafters, is broken up in to 80 x 1 meter panels being constructed around the world; as from as far as Australia, New Zealand, United States of America, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland and Europe.

Scene from The Longest Yarn exhibition depicting a knitted scene for the horses and the liberation of Sainte Mere Eglise

What definitely made the exhibition special was the sense of community woven into each piece. Each section had its own story, crafted by individuals or groups who poured their hearts into preserving this vital piece of history. It’s a powerful reminder of how creativity can connect us to the past while inspiring future generations.

Scene from The Longest Yarn exhibition depicting wounded knitted soldiers getting treatment in a field hospital after a battle.

If the Longest Yarn Exhibition ever comes to a location near you, I cannot recommend it enough. There is no charge to enter the exhibition, but donations are welcome. Whether you’re a history buff, a craft enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates incredible art, this is an event you won’t want to miss. From the leaflet from the exhibition The Longest Yarn is scheduled to visit following places next;

Tewkesbury Abbey, 7 Dec 2024 – 10 Jan 2025
St Makartins, Enniskillen, 13 Jan – 8 Feb 2025
Norwich University, 10 Feb – 13 Mar 2025
Peterborough Cathedral, 3 Mar – 1 Apr
Cape May, USA, 25 Apr – TBC

But I would check on the The Longest Yarn Facebook page updates on venues.

A hand is shown holding up a programme for the Longest Yarn exhibition next to a background of knitted and crocheted poppies.

To everyone involved in this exhibition, thank you for creating something so moving and unforgettable.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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1Oct2024

Fireside Comforts | October Blog Hop 2024

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

The cosy season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with the Fireside Blog Hop, hosted by the talented Ambassador Crochet! From October 1st through the 31st, you can discover an incredible selection of crochet patterns from many fabulous designers—including me!

Fireside Comforts Blog Hop, 1 - 31 October 2024 hosted by Ambassador Crochet.

If you’re not familiar with a crochet blog hop is it’s basically an online networking event hosted by folks in the crochet blogging community. It’s a bit like a virtual scavenger hunt where you will find new designers to follow, and get free patterns while you’re at it! You’ll “hop” to each designers blog to get the free pattern details; by doing this you help the us as designers grow our businesses (thank you!), all while receiving a free or discounted crochet pattern for yourself (yay!)

Each day, a new pattern will be featured, by Ambassador Crochet, either a free PDF download (available for 24 hours only) or at at least 50% off sale, giving you a fantastic opportunity to stock up on some fabulous crochet designs.

List of 25 fabulous designers that are taking part in the Fireside Comforts blog hop hosted by Ambassador Crochet.

Each day of October, beginning Tuesday 1 October, at roughly 1pm UK time (8am EST), a brand new pattern will be shared AND you lovely crocheters will be able to get each pattern with either the link and / or the coupon code that will be provided!

And of course I have a brand new pattern to share with you that I think you’ll enjoy but it’s a surprise as to which day is my day. So watch this space, and don’t forget to keep an eye out on social media for the links to the coupon codes to get that days pattern. There’s blankets, cowls, scarfs, slippers to name a few of the designs you can look forward to.

Collage of ten different designs (out of 31) that are featured in the Fireside Comforts Blog Hop 2024.

How the event works:

Go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code.
Download the pattern to your device or library!

Patterns will only be available for 24 hours from 1pm to 1pm GMT (8am to 8am EST) the next day.

Pattern Bundle Special Offer:

If you can’t wait for everyday in October , because you want all the things now, then there is also an option to purchase the exclusive pattern bundle at a saving of If you don’t want to wait for each day, you have the option to purchase the bundle of patterns were you’ll get all 31 patterns for only £9.78 / $12.99. ! This pattern bundle won’t last for long it’s only until the end of October 2024.

The bundle includes all 31 designs featured in the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience.

Whether you’re looking to start your holiday crafting or just need a new project for those cosy nights by the fire, the Fireside Blog Hop has something for everyone. Be sure to follow along daily so you don’t miss out on these limited-time deals! Let’s make this October our most creative one yet!

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected.

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15Jul2024

Fibre Friends Chat | The Yarn Whisperer

Posted in Blogging, British Crochet Designer, Crochet, Designer Interview, Inspiration by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m delighted to share a new fibre friend chat with you today. Join me in giving a big welcome to the KCACOUK blog to Kitey aka The Yarn Whisperer.

Fibre Friends Chat with The Yarn Whisperer on the Keep Calm and Crochet On UK blog.

I’m absolutely delighted to include this latest chat! Kitey creates the most delicious hand-
dyed yarn that are just delightful to work with, and as well as dying yarn, he crochets,
he knits, he tapestries (is that right?), and he hosts a weekly stitch and b*tch social and he’s a fellow small business owner.

As you probably know Kitey and I have been working on a number of fun crochet make-alongs since 2020 after meeting on Zoom during the first UK COVID lockdown. And sometimes I get the opportunity to catch up with him in person like I did last years Carry on Crafting Festival.

Selfie of Kitey and me at Carry on Crafting in 2023

As our SEVENTH Mischievous Magpie make-along soon comes to an end I thought it would be nice to know more about his creative processes and about him in general. Here’s what we chatted about…

Hi Kitey, can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do?
Hey Heather, I’m an ex-primary teacher (for almost 30 years!) and now work for
myself as an Indie yarn dyer and crochet teacher. I grew up in Sydney, Australia and
have lived mostly in the UK since 1992, with a 3 year stint teaching out in Abu Dhabi,
UAE.

How did you become a yarn dyer? Do you do it full time?
I started experimenting with dyeing yarn in 2019 and opened Yarn Whisperer (YW) in Jan 2020, dyeing yarn part time while working as a teacher a couple of days a week. Then the
pandemic happened. Schools ended supply teacher contracts (to save on furlough!)
so I leaned into the opportunity to work from home and for myself full time.

This year I’m also leaning into my teaching experience still further and am teaching
more crochet workshops. I am also doing more pop-up shops at yarn shops and
social groups. I will be teaching my first workshop at Ally Pally later this year too!

Image of Kitey covered in lots of different knitted shawls he has made. He is also holding some knitting needles as he starts his next work in progress. — © The Yarn Whisperer 2024

What is your morning routine look like?
Coffee … first cup hot, second served as a Greek Frappe in the warmer months
(instant, frothed in about 10ml of cold water, served with ice and cold water!) while
catching up on social media and planning my day.

On dyeing days, I’ll get the first batches of yarn ready and set it to soaking in cold
water. Then it’s dyeing, packing orders, post office runs, filming and photography for
socials and marketing, writing up crochet patterns, working on wips, workshop and
display projects, and all the other things! It’s just me so I wear all the hats.

Collage of different dye pans as created by The Yarn Whisperer and an image of some pretty variegated yarn when the dying is finished. — © The Yarn Whisperer 2024

What’s the most difficult part of being a yarn dyer?
I love it so it doesn’t feel difficult – it’s true that if you do the thing you love, you’ll
never work a day in your life! – but it’s also true that pans are heavy and back pain is
real. Show prep takes ages and shows are long hours of standing around .. but I
wouldn’t change that as it’s such a privilege to be part of other people’s creative
process too!

Have you always been crafty?
Yeah, I’ve tried everything from glass painting, bead looming to origami, and crafts
too many to list here!

You really seem to enjoy all sorts of crafts, if you were on a desert island and
could only pick one to do, what would it be?
I’d take knitting probably as it’s usually what I have on a plane, and you can be sure
I’d be making fabulous shell jewellery and sandcastles too! wink

Collage image which includes Kitey on a train crafting the day away alongside a close up of some of the Yarn Whisperer Yarn knitted up, and close up of Kitey's hands with knitting needles. — © The Yarn Whisperer 2024

You design too don’t you? Do you sketch things out first, or do you just like to
grab some yarn and start?
I tend to have an idea in my head and then just grab yarn and start. I sometimes go
through books of crochet stitches or research knitting techniques on YouTube (I
have a huge amount of private playlists on there!)

Do you have a favourite creation or product that you’ve designed?
I loved designing my Crocheted Terrarium pattern and have absolutely loved
teaching it in workshops because it’s more like a recipe of techniques and everyone
creates something truly unique. I love being able to facilitate the creative process for
others.

How do you fit everything in that you want to? Are you strict with yourself and
your time or is it a struggle to juggle?
I don’t fit it all in. I’m really hoping cloning technology advances soon! I can juggle
(tennis racquets and balls – my tennis lessons as a child were not wasted!) and I use
this juggling skill daily. I set times to do ‘bits’ of projects and get it all done in lots of
bits rather than sitting with one thing for hours on end.

What makes you passionate and gets you motivated?
Learning has always been my passion. Crafting, knitting, crochet or whatever is just
learning plus time and dedication. Everyone can do it. You just have to start, then
keep going!

What can we expect to see from you in the rest of 2024?
More yarn, more pop up shops, more workshops. New patterns and projects

Collage of beautiful handdyed yarn as created by The Yarn Whisperer in various different shades. — © The Yarn Whisperer 2024

And just for fun; You’re a new addition to a yarn shade range. What colour
would you be and why?
Probably a variegated skein of hand dyed, with all the colours, moody black and grey
tones and neon pops. I’d call it ‘Wherever next?’ because I just love the idea that
creativity is ever changing and evolving.

I’d just like to take this opportunity to thank Kitey for taking time to chat to me. I’ve
really enjoyed getting to know him better and hope you have too.
Follow Kitey everywhere on the web: www.YarnWhisperer.co.uk,
@the_YarnWhisperer (insta) and @iwantyarn (facebook) and you can buy his yarn
and patterns on his website.

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Pinterest Collage for The Yarn Whisperer Fibre Friends chat on the Keep Calm and Crochet On UK blog.

If you enjoyed this interview you can catch up on all the other designer chats and discussions with other people in the fiber industry in my Fibre Friends series. And if there’s any other people you’d like to maybe see featured here on the blog, let me know in the comments and I’ll see what I can do.

Make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts like this one, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected. You can read more about my affiliate links here.

21Jun2024

Navigating the Landscape of AI-Generated Crochet

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

While the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the world of crochet brings numerous benefits and opportunities for innovation, it also poses certain challenges and drawbacks, particularly in the realm of online content.

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Pinterest collage made up of Ai-Generated images to accompany a blog post about navigating the landscape of AI-Generated Crochet

Now I’m interested in all things crochet, and I certainly find the concept of Ai-generated crochet interesting. As a designer I do see it could potentially be used as a tool to generate or expand upon an idea I might have, but at the moment I’m more concerned with the potential negatives of AI-generated crochet content on the web.

What is Ai-generated crochet?

So what is an AI-generated crochet images? Well, they are computer-made ‘versions’ or ideas of crochet. It can be things like impossibly large amigurumi (as seen recently with the viral photo of the granny with the gigantic crochet cat), or yarn bombs that are just amazing or doing things that yarn shouldn’t really be able to do.

Example of unrealistic crochet dragon sitting in someone's living room as created by Artificial Intelligence

The problem is that these photos are often spread on social media without any indication that they are fake. Whilst some people may recognise these images as fake, their ability to do so hinges on their understanding of both crochet and generative AI to discern the differences.

I’m going to add a caveat here that all the photos in this post have been generated by me using Ai. As you continue reading see how many you could spot as fake! Not going to lie I had great fun thinking of prompts for these images!

Example of unrealistic crochet generated fantasy outfit created by Artificial Intelligence

Ai Crochet Patterns

The sheer volume of AI-generated content available online is making it more and more challenging to discern what patterns are actually real or not. It’s clear that there are crochet patterns being advertised by an image that has been created by Ai which is leading to people sadly getting tricked into thinking something that’s fake is real. NBC reported on the fact recently that Etsy crochet buyers had reported Ai-made images being used to sell disappointing patterns. These scammers are creating visually appealing images without ever picking up a hook!

The internet has always contained fake images, even before the advent of AI tools, but artificial intelligence has significantly amplified the prevalence of these fakes. As a rule Ai can’t write crochet patterns accurately, as it’s a computer pulling ‘words’ from different places from the web the crochet patterns it produces basically create instructions that don’t make sense – so thankfully us designers aren’t out of a job just yet.

Example of a crochet dinosaur with it's proud 'designer' as created by Artificial Intelligence

However AI-generated crochet patterns could negatively impact the crochet community by undermining the value of traditional craftsmanship and flooding the market with low-quality, unvetted designs. This influx of AI-created patterns might make it difficult for genuine designers to gain recognition and could devalue the time-honored skills and efforts of experienced crocheters.

Wherever possible, purchase your patterns from reputable sources. If it’s a pattern you are thinking of buying, see if you can find some user photos or reviews of the pattern to verify that you’re getting what you are expecting to pay for – and if you spot a scammer report it on the platform you are using.

I’m concerned that scams however are going to get progressively trickier to spot as the technology advances, but for now I’ve got some suggestions on how you can spot Ai-generated crochet…

Example of a crochet amigurumi kitten held in a pair of hands as created by Artificial Intelligence

How to spot Ai-generated crochet

Have you noticed that AI-generated crochet designs lack the personal touch and authenticity of handmade creations. If it’s too good to be true then it usually is! Ai-generated photos are often too polished and obsessively symmetrical looking, I think the charm of crochet lies in its imperfections and idiosyncrasies.

2. Super intricate? Like incredibly so? That could be a sign of Ai, crocheters can do amazing things, but if it looks like it’s defying the general laws of physics its probably Ai-generated.

Example of impossibly intricate crochet generated by Artificial Intelligence

3. Ever get the feeling when you look at an image that it’s bit ‘off’? In older photos when humans are in the picture, you can spot Ai by looking at the hands, or missing toes, distorted features or something else will not be quite right about them. Ai has had issues with creating a humans with accuracy, however but Ai is getting more sophisticated all the time so who knows if that will be a way to tell in the future!

4. Have a look at the lighting and shadows, in Ai-generated images they may not appear photorealistic or another dead giveaway is if the background is unrealistic such as a fantasy setting or natural background that looks a little too perfect.

Example of unrealistic crochet generated fantasy land created by Artificial Intelligence

Now I don’t think sadly that this sort of thing is going to stop, but hopefully raising awareness of this issue can only be a good thing. Just remember, next time you come across a crochet photo online, take a closer look and consider the possibility of it being AI-generated.

Did you find this article interesting? Do you have any thoughts about Ai- generated crochet ? I’d love to hear about it – let me know in the comments below.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

Psst… If you love crochet make sure you are signed up to the blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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31Jan2024

KCACOUK | Reflections on a decade of blogging

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m about to tell you some information that might be startling. This blog that you’re reading right at this very moment— has just turned TEN YEARS OLD!

TEN. WHOLE.
YEARS.

A crocheted number is ten is displayed on the top of a image full of hand dyed mini skeins — Gorgeous yarn minis by Hook & Cwtch of current WIP and pattern for numbers by Moogly

A FULL DECADE. I DEMAND TO KNOW HOW. There are human beings younger than this blog, one of my human beings in fact, and it all started with this post. Short and sweet I didn’t really know what I was doing, but I wanted another outlet to talk about all things crochet (I’m an obsessive it’s true!).

So let me take you back to the heady days of 2014 — as a mum to a toddler and a recent graduate (after doing my degree part-time for 6 years whilst working full time) I found myself with a bit more time on my hands, and a newly discovered passion for all things yarny. As my obsession with crochet grew, and the people around me got progressively sick of hearing about it, I decided I needed another outlet to chat about all things crochet – and so the blog was born! And this is now my 637th blog post – crazy! That’s an average of 63 posts per year – that makes me feel like I talk A. LOT!

A chocolate cake in the foreground has number 10 candles on the top. Around the cake is a colourful crocheted scarf - pattern coming soon! — Sneak peep at a new pattern coming soon!

I really wasn’t sure if anybody would actually read what I written. Never did I imagine that I would be sitting here, a decade later, still crocheting as a hobby which then kinda-sorta-turned into a job. This blog, along with you constant readers, has been one of the most persistent and grounding things in my life.

There’s been several life shifts during the last 10 years; from being a mum of one to becoming a mum of two. From redundancy, to job changes, becoming a small business owner with Yarnybobs and Dear Ewe, creating a plethora of crochet designs, as well as dealing with sickness, mental health, worldwide pandemics and personal loss (phew that’s a lot!) Well it has been a decade!

A crocheted number ten is displayed on top of a sparkly ombre crocheted shawl - pattern coming soon! — Sneaky peep at another pattern coming soon!

Whilst I don’t always necessarily share all aspects of my life, this blog, and of course all the masses of crochet I’ve done in those 10 years (geez just think of that) has been a nice place to come and share what I enjoy.

From time to time, somebody will comment on a post and it always comes across what a nice crochet community (the best, in my humble opinion) there is in the world. It’s lovely to know that I’m not alone in my obsessions, and that you share them too. It’s an honour to be part of the crochet community, you’re a wonderful bunch and blogging has led to me meeting several of you in person and developing some real-life friendships for which I’ll always be grateful.

Heather Gibbs sits holding a chocolate cake with a number ten candle on it to celebrate a decade of crochet blogging. — Any excuse is a good excuse for a cup of tea and slice of cake!

If you’ve been here for the long run —thank you from the bottom of my heart for sticking with me! And if you’re more of a newcomer—welcome! I’m so glad you’re here! There’s still lots to look forward to, I’ve got no plans of finishing blogging just yet! So feel free to poke around, check it all out, and let me know if anything’s acting weird (apart from me)!

Thank you, thank you, thank you for 10 wonderful years! I’m going to try and plan some giveaways to celebrate over the next couple of weeks, so keep an eye out here on the blog and on socials!

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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24Jan2024

Finished Object | Companion Wrist Warmers

Posted in Blogging, Crochet, From the Stash, Pattern Review by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hot off my hook is an actual finished object and a big tick off my Make 9 in 2024 list and it’s still only January! Yay me!

My eldest daughter had made a request for me to make her some rainbow wrist warmers for her upcoming birthday. Around about the same time I came across a pattern by Rosina (of Zeens and Roger) for her Companions set, which included a lovely pair of stripy wrist warmers. I showed a picture to my daughter and she said I was on the right track…

However, as a pre-teen she had some very specific ideas about what she wanted; and the wrist warmers underwent a few modifications in order to be exactly what she’d envisioned.

The original Companions wrist warmers were made from gorgeous looking Yarnadelic by John Arbon Textiles which is a plump woolly 4ply (baby weight) yarn. However my daughter has clothing sensory issues and would never have coped with a woollen yarn so I had to look for an acceptable (to her) substitute.

With her agreement I used Scheepjes Colour Crafter DK which is a very soft 100% premium acrylic that comes in 100g balls (330m). It’s classed as a double knit (light worsted) yarn, however I would say it is a thin DK, so I thought it would work for this project.

Modified version of the Zeens and Roger Companion crochet wrist warmers — Big shout out to my lovely mum for modelling these for photo purposes x

She knew she wanted long stripy ‘arms’ so I used a combination of Amsterdam (Red 1010), Vlissingen (Orange 1723), Leuven (Yellow 2008), Terneuzen (Green 1821), Knokke (Blue 2012) and Drachten (Magenta 1827) and a contrast colour of Wolvega (Grey 1099).

The pattern provides different measurements for wrist and hand circumference which was very handy *excuse the pun*. My daughter is only 12 therefore I had to make adjustments so that the finished article would fit her smaller wrist size, yet allowing for them to fit higher up on her arm. As a consequence I had to blend the smaller hand with a medium wrist size to make them fit. I think had I been making the wrist warmers for myself then the medium size would have fit my hands / wrists perfectly.

Bright and colourful rainbow and grey mitts against a blank wall.

At the last moment, my daughter asked if I could ‘add fingers’ – I tried to explain that this wasn’t part of the pattern, but she insisted that they were necessary. So, sorry Rosina, I cobbled some ‘fingers’ onto the ends of the design. They aren’t the prettiest addition, but they are functional and pleased the pre-teen. Please don’t ask me what I did to make the fingers as I don’t think it could (or should) be recreated in that way.

Anyway, Daughter is delighted with the finished modified mitts – even with the dodgy added fingers. The pattern was easy to follow and I think if I were to make them again for myself I would try the Yarnadelic yarn in a gradient of some of the pretty muted colours they offer in this range. Rosina’s pattern if you want to make some yourself is available from her pattern stores – I picked mine up on Ravelry.

A pair of grey and rainbow stripy gloves crossed in front of the body of a woman.

Do you have a favourite finished object that you’ve made recently? I’d love to hear about it – let me know in the comments below.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected.

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15Jan2024

Project Planning in 2024

Posted in Blogging, Crochet, Getting Crafty by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Aside from my ‘official’ design work this year I want to try and claim some making time for myself! Though I thoroughly love working on various commissions I have felt, particularly last year, that I’d maybe lost a bit of that balance between working on things for others and working on things that I want to make.

My make 9 plans for 2024 by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK.

I’m not one for making resolutions but I do like lists. So I’m adding a list here on the blog (in no particular order) of some designs that I’d like to find the time to make this year. Having a list is to sort of hold myself accountable, and also so I can look back on, at the end of the year, and see if I accomplished what I’d set out to do.

Elena Poncho by Anastasia R Smith (aka Journey Chanel Designs)

Now it might be because it’s freezing at the moment but this pattern, that I bought last year, has moved higher up my list as it looks so snuggly and warm!

I just need to check if I’ve got enough yarn in my stash to make it, or if I’m going to have to go yarn shopping…

Companions Cowl & Wrist Warmers by Zeens and Roger

Now I’m possibly cheating a bit with these as I’ve actually started making these, but these make the list because I’m making them this year.

These were released back in 2021 but I picked up a copy of the pattern recently in Rosina’s birthday sale. My daughter asked me for a pair of long stripy mitts and these seemed to fit the bill perfectly!

Companions Wrist Warmers by Zeens and Roger — © Zeens and Roger 2021

Toadstool Hat by Alice Tarry (aka the burrow uk)

I have a thing about mushrooms 🍄, not in real life (because disgusting) but I love to see them represented in things like yarn, wood or ceramic!

I bought this pattern when it was released, in October 2023, and I just need to go through my stash so I can get started on this one while it’s still cold here in the UK.

Maple Leaf Cardigan by Christina Hadderingh (aka a spoonful of yarn)

I’ve had this on my wishlist for what seems like FOREVER! And this is going to be the year (possibly) that I’m going to overcome my ‘never made a garment’ status and make this beauty!

I just need to buy the recommended yarn for this one as I want it to look the same! 😍

Maple Leaf Cardigan by Christina Hadderingh — © Christina Hadderingh 2018

Sleeping Mice by Vanessa Mooncie

I literally fell in love with these when they were released last March – I bought the pattern but have I made them yet. Well that answer is no – but this is the year right!

I mean, how adorable! I just want one to put in my sock drawer!

Coastal Cosy Socks by Eleonora Tully (aka Coastal Crochet)

Another pattern I purchased when it was released last October! I really want to make some crochet socks and these, made with DK weight, look a perfect recipe.

Just need to go stash diving as I’m pretty sure I’ve got loads of lovely yarn that is just waiting to be put on my feet!

Coastal Cosy Socks by Eleonora Tully (aka Coastal Crochet) — © Eleonora Tully 2023

Juniper Cowl by Toni Lipsey aka (TL Yarn Crafts)

Now if you follow me here on the blog you may remember that I have already made a Juniper Cowl. But as it’s one of my most worn items I want to make another one! I’ve got a gorgeous set of mini skeins, that I bought from the lovely Hook and Cwtch, that’s just waiting for me to start this project! Though I think this is one that I’ll treat myself to as a holiday project when we go away later in the year.

70’s WIP bag by The Yarn Whisperer

I was a guest at the Crochet Sanctuary last year when the lovely Kitey was the guest designer. For his workshop he designed this rather fabulous bag.

That means for this project I’ve got the pattern AND all the yarn, and I’ve actually started it – but I really want to get this finished off this year so that’s why it’s making the list (so it’s not really cheating).

70's WIP bag by The Yarn Whisperer — © Andrew Kite 2023

One Evening Mystery MAL by Tatsiana (aka Lilla Bjorn)

One Evening Mystery MAL by Lilla Bjorn — © Tatsiana Kupryianchyk 2023

In November last year Tatsiana released a group of patterns that, in theory, you could make in an evening. There were four in total but it was for these ‘One Evening’ beautiful baubles that I purchased the pattern.

They look so pretty, and I love making handmade ornaments for my tree so these need to be made this year before next Christmas!

And that’s it, my ‘wish list’ of nine projects that I’d like to start (and finish) in 2024. This post has certainly showed off my talent for buying patterns – but demonstrates clearly that I haven’t perfected making the projects afterwards! But this is the year! How many do you think I’ll finish?

Do you have particular projects you’ve got your eye on this year? Do you like to make a list of your projects for the year? I’d love to hear about your plans – let me know in a comment below.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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1Jan2024

Winter Washcloth | January Blog Hop 2024

Posted in Blogging, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m excited to say that I’m going to be kicking off 2024 by taking part in a new crochet blog hop! From 1 – 31 January I’m one of many designers taking part in the the ‘Winter Washcloth’ event.

A collage graphic of many of the designs available in the Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2024.

Crochet washcloths are a fantastic first crochet project, but they are also fun for more experienced crocheters. In fact, washcloths and dishcloths are great because, as a small item, you can get a quick dopamine hit from a project that won’t take long to finish.

A collage graphic of the 31 designs available in the Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2024.

Each day of January, beginning TODAY Monday 1 January, at roughly 1pm UK time (8am EST), a brand new pattern will be shared AND you lovely crocheters will be able to get each pattern as a free PDF download for 24 hrs with the coupon code that will be provided!

And of course I have a brand new pattern to share with you that I think you’ll enjoy. I’m going to leave it as a surprise as to which day of January is my day, and what my design is – though I’m sure you’ve guessed it’s a washcloth of some kind! So watch this space, and don’t forget to keep an eye out on social media for the links to the coupon codes to get that days free pattern.

A graphic of howthe Winter WashCloths blog hop running from 1 - 31 January 2024 works.

How the event works:

Go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code.
Click the link and scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button.
Download the pattern to your device or library!

Button graphic to visit the round-up page for the Winter Washcloth of 31 crochet patterns

Patterns will only be available for 24 hours from 1pm to 1pm GMT (8am to 8am EST) the next day.

The bundle includes all 31 designs featured in the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience.

Button graphic to purchase the crochet Winter Washcloth pattern bundle of 31 patterns

And that’s it! A lovely new free PDF pattern to get crocheting for yourself or a fabulous bundle of crochet washcloth patterns from loads of fabulous designers. Be sure to give my fellow designers some love as they share their work on each of the blog hop days.

Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected.