I’m excited to finally re-introduce you today to a design I actually made way back in 2017 – the Parchment Meadow Pillow. I’ve very happy to be bringing this pattern to this year’s Fireside Comfort Blog Hop. With it’s textured stitches and pretty meadow inspired design it’s a lovely way to add a little extra interest to a favourite armchair or sofa.
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I know it’s taken me a little while 😬 to finally release this one, but in reality, there just aren’t enough hours in the day to do all the things I want to do! I am getting there though, and sometimes (for me anyway) having a blog hop deadline is just the motivation I need to get a long awaited design over the finishing line.
Originally published in Happily Hooked Magazine with the magazine no longer in print I’m delighted to finally bring it back as part of the Fireside Comfort Blog Hop.
For the base of the Parchment Meadow Pillow I used 3 balls of Stylecraft Special Chunky yarn in Parchment (shade 1218) with a 6 mm (US size J) hook. Then for the flowers I used Stylecraft Special DK I used three different colours (duck egg blue (shade 1820) / storm blue (shade 1722) and grape (shade 1067) with a 3.5mm (US size E) hook.
If you are not familiar with Stylecraft yarn they can be substituted with other 100% acrylic DK / light #3 / Bulky #5 (Chunky) yarns of a similar weight – try to match the original metres / yards per 100g where possible. For US crocheters suitable alternatives may include Lion Brand Basic Stitch Anti-Piling or KnitPicks Brava 3 DK. Stylecraft Special Chunky could be substituted with Bernat Softee Chunky or Paintbox Simply Chunky
The beautifully textured crochet cushion features 3D flowers that add depth and interest to the design. Choose any colours you like for the flowers and then pair them with a base shade to complement your own décor – whether you prefer soft and subtle or bright and colourful you can make it uniquely yours
This pattern will be available with a 50% discount for 24hrs (1pm to 1pm GMT / 8am to 8am EST) on Wednesday 21 October 2026 as part of the Fireside Comforts Blog Hop.
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 to use on Ravelry.
Download the pattern to your device or library!
If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the basket from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)
All the patterns from Fireside Comforts Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous collection of cosy autumn accessories like cushions, home decor, shawls, blankets and more. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:
I can’t wait to see your versions of the Parchment Meadow Pillow! Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.
You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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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.
I’m back with another little character to share with you from the latest issue of Inside Crochet. This time, I’d love you to meet Barnaby Bramblestripes the Badger, a gentle woodland-loving little chap who is all about finding comfort in the quieter things in life. He’s the perfect little project for anyone who loves woodland creatures and a touch of cosy autumn charm.🦡
Barnaby is a gentle, woodland-loving little badge who can often be found snuggling into his snug moss-lined nest. Wearing his favourite coat and scarf, Barnaby delights in the quiet comforts of his hiddne home where he can curl up, keep warm and enjoy the peaceful magic of the woodland around him.
I absolutely love the character of this little chap, I wanted to give Barnaby that wonderfully cosy, storybook feel, with his favourite coat and scarf making him look ready for a crisp woodland walk before heading back to his sett. He would make a lovely gift for any animal lovers, or for anyone who enjoys creating charming crochet characters with little personalities of their own.
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What you need for the pattern
For my Barnaby I used some West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK which is a firm favourite yarn of mine, especially for heritage look amigurumi. West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK is 100% British Wool that comes in 100g/ 225 m/ 246 yards and is available in both solid and varigated shades.
Barnaby Bramblestripe the Badger crochet pattern is available in Issue 193 of Inside Crochet magazine,which is on sale now, available from all good newsagents and craft stores. To purchase a digital copy of Inside Crochet, visit www.pocketmags.com.
I think Barnaby would look absolutely adorable nestled amongst your autumn decorations, tucked onto a bookshelf or sitting somewhere cosy in your home. He’d also make a lovely addition to a collection of woodland-inspired crochet friends.
Please share your makes with me on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk – I always love seeing your projects.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
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, thank you for your support.
Hello my lovelies – I hope you’re all keeping well and finding plenty of time to enjoy a bit of crochet! Today I have a colourful and contemporary home décor project to share with you: the Bold Block Pillow.
Available now in the latest issue of Simply Crochet magazine, if you love playing with colour and adding a handmade touch to your home, this could be just the project for you.
The Bold Block Pillow is all about making a statement with colour and simple geometric shapes. I opted for a bright and cheerful colour palette for my version to create a design that really catches the eye and adds a lovely pop of colour to a room.
If you’re not familiar with Yarnsmiths Merino DK, it’s made from 100% Wool, [50g / 110 metres] that’s available in lots of solid shades. It’s a lovely smooth textured yarn that’s as soft as silk and as smooth as butter – I know I’ll definitely be using more of this yarn in the future.
One of the things I love about this design is how versatile it could be. Although I chose brights for my pillow, you could easily tailor the colours to suit your own decor. Think soft neutrals for a calm and contemporary look, earthy shades for a more natural feel, or a sophisticated combination of two or threee complementary colours. I think it would be so exciting to see all the different colour combinations you come up with.
Where to Find the Pattern
Issue 180 of Simply Crochet magazine is available in print via UK newsagents and craft shops, or you can obtain a digital copy through the Simply Crochet website or apps as a digital issue.
Whether you make the Bold Block pillow to brighten up your favourite armchair, add a splash of colour to your sofa, or create a coordinated set for your living room, this pillow is a lovely way to bring a little crochet personality into your home,
I absolutely can’t wait to see your versions of the Bold Block Pillow. Do tag me on instagram so I can see what you create. I’d particularly love to see the different colour combinations you choose – my bright version is just one possibility, and I know you’ll come up with some gorgeous alternatives.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
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, thank you for your support.
Today I’m delighted to re-introduce one of my older designs, the Sierra Diamond Blanket. Originally published in Simply Crochet magazine, Issue 71 back in 2018, this bold and striking blanket has now had a little revamp. The original design has been brought up to date into a 5-page pattern making it easier to follow and enjoy,
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The Sierra Diamond Blanket was inspired by the rich colours and geometric patterns of the American Southwest. Made with granny diamonds in shades of orange, navy and white, this eye-catching blanket has a wonderful retro feel, with the colours creating a strong graphic effect as the diamonds come together.
Whether draped over the back of a sofa or snuggled under on a chilly evening, the Sierra Diamond Blanket is sure to make a statement to your room.
For this blanket I used Stylecraft Special DK I used three different colours (white (shade 1001) / midnight (shade 1011) and tomato (shade 1723) with a 4mm (US size G/6) hook.
If you are not familiar with Stylecraft yarn they can be substituted with other 100% acrylic DK / light #3 yarns of a similar weight – try to match the original metres / yards per 100g where possible. For US crocheters suitable alternatives may include Lion Brand Basic Stitch Anti-Piling or KnitPicks Brava 3 DK.
I’d love to see your versions of the Sierra Diamond Blanket. Why not try it in completely different colours and see how the geometric design changes? You could stick with the bold contrast of the original, or choose your own favourite colour combination.
This pattern will be available with a 50% discount for 24hrs (1pm to 1pm GMT / 8am to 8am EST) on Wednesday 7 October 2026 as part of the Fireside Comforts Blog Hop.
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 to use on Ravelry.
Download the pattern to your device or library!
If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the basket from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)
All the patterns from Fireside Comforts Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous collection of cosy autumn accessories like cushions, home decor, shawls, blankets and more. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:
I can’t wait to see your versions of the Sierra Diamond Blanket! If you make one, don’t forget to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or add your finished project on Ravelry) – I always love seeing your makes!
You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Subscribe to the blog:
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.
Hey lovelies, I hope you had a lovely summer! Between the school holidays and work I definitely tried to make the most of the summer – and grab any reading opportunities. And I do feel that I did manage to squeeze in plenty of reading whenever I could, and there’s been something especially nice about having a book to hand during those holiday summer moments.
July was a real mix of reads for me, with plenty of variety and a few books that completely surprised me. I’ve continued to love stepping outside my usual choices too, especially thanks to the recommendations coming from my book clubs. It’s amazing how often a book I might never have picked up on my own ends up being one of the ones I enjoy the most! 📚☀️✨
Reminder: The Vision for the Book Afghan
To maintain cohesion, I’ve used the same block pattern for the entire afghan (grab the free pattern here), working with yarn from my stash and selecting 4 colours that reflect and are closest to (as I’m not buying new yarn!) the book’s cover design.
Synopsis:The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose is a gripping psychological thriller centred on Sarah Morgan, a successful criminal defence attorney, and her husband Adam, a struggling writer. When Adam’s mistress is found murdered at their lake house, he becomes the prime suspect and faces the death penalty. Sarah takes on the difficult task of defending her own husband, but as the investigation unfolds, secrets, lies and betrayals begin to emerge, leaving the question of who is really responsible for the murder hanging in the balance.
Review: I really wanted to like this one, but there were just too many discrepancies for me to overlook. I found the characters a bit ridiculous at times, and I guessed who had done it almost straight away, which took away some of the suspense. That said, I’d probably give another book by Jeneva Rose a try before passing judgement on her other books.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 stars (out of 5) ⚠️ Content warning: includes strong descriptions of violence and abuse of all kinds against women.
Synopsis:The Book of Etta by Meg Elison is the second book in the Road to Nowhere trilogy, set generations after a devastating plague has decimated the human population. Etta, a young scavenger from the settlement of Nowhere, rejects the traditional roles expected of women and instead travels beyond the community, rescuing women and girls from brutal slave traders. When people she loves are captured, Etta sets out on a dangerous mission that brings her face-to-face with the ruthless Lion, a tyrant who controls a vast territory.
Review: Fast-paced and really well written, with the same dark themes as the first book. This series is definitely turning into some of the best books I’ve read in a while. It kept my interest from start to finish, with believable characters and a thought-provoking story. I’m thoroughly enjoying this trilogy and can’t wait to see how it continues.
Synopsis:Other People’s Houses by Clare Mackintosh is the third book in the DC Morgan series. When DC Ffion Morgan discovers the body of an estate agent in a Welsh lake, she begins investigating what appears to be a suspicious death. Meanwhile, DS Leo Brady is dealing with a series of break-ins on an exclusive Cheshire street, where someone seems to be searching for something – or someone. As the two cases collide, Ffion and Leo uncover a web of secrets, jealousy and deception behind the seemingly perfect homes.
Review: I accidentally read this one out of order, as I didn’t realise until halfway through that it was the third in the series! However, you can definitely read it as a standalone. It was a good, twisty thriller that was easy to read and had plenty of likeable characters. I really enjoyed it and will now have to go back and read books one and two!
Synopsis:The Vegetarian by Han Kang follows Yeong-hye, an ordinary South Korean woman who abruptly decides to stop eating meat after a series of disturbing nightmares. Her decision, seemingly simple at first, gradually becomes an act of rebellion against her family and society. Told through the perspectives of those closest to her rather than Yeong-hye herself, the novel explores control, identity, desire and the consequences of refusing to conform. Dark, unsettling and deeply symbolic, it examines what happens when one woman attempts to reclaim control over her own body and life.
Review: This was a book club pick and not something I probably would have picked up myself. It’s a very odd book, with some content that was quite difficult to read at times. Despite that, I found it strangely compelling and it certainly gave me plenty to think about. It’s definitely not a happy story, and I wasn’t a huge fan of the ending, but I’m glad I gave it a go.
Synopsis:I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman is a haunting post-apocalyptic novel about a young girl imprisoned underground with thirty-nine women. Watched over by silent guards, none of them know why they are there or what has happened to the world outside. When an unexpected event allows them to escape, the women emerge into a strange and seemingly deserted world, where they must learn to survive and search for answers. As the girl grows up, she begins to question what it means to be human, while confronting isolation, freedom, loss and the mysteries of a world she has never known.
Review: Another book club pick, but one that had been on my list of books I wanted to read. Another dystopian novel, but with such a fascinating concept – experiencing life through the eyes of a woman whose existence is so far removed from our own. Beautifully written, unique and thought-provoking, this was a really interesting and memorable read.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5) ⚠️ Content warning: miscarriage / infant mortality
Synopsis:I Am, I Am, I Am by Maggie O’Farrell is a memoir told through seventeen encounters with death that have punctuated her life. From a serious childhood illness and a terrifying encounter with a stranger to accidents, medical emergencies and the ongoing challenges of protecting her daughter, O’Farrell reflects on moments when her life could have ended. Beautifully written and deeply personal, the book explores vulnerability, resilience and the preciousness of life.
Review: Another book club pick, and memoirs aren’t usually something I’m drawn to. However, this was beautifully written and much more uplifting than I expected. Although it focuses on 17 brushes with death, it isn’t a collection of sadness; instead, it feels almost celebratory, reminding us just how precious life is. A really interesting and moving read.
Synopsis:Glorious Rock Bottom by Bryony Gordon is a raw and honest memoir about her twenty-year struggle with alcohol and drug addiction and the journey that eventually led her to sobriety. Gordon recounts the darkest moments of her addiction and the impact it had on her relationships, family, work and mental health, before describing the difficult process of recovery through rehab, support groups and self-reflection. Despite its difficult subject matter, the memoir is also funny, hopeful and ultimately uplifting, offering an honest look at addiction, recovery and learning to accept yourself.
Review: From one memoir to another! This was passed on to me by a friend and, again, not usually something I’d choose myself. However, I found this warts-and-all account of the author’s alcoholism really interesting and engaging. It’s honest without holding back, and gave me plenty to think about when it comes to the nature of addiction and the difficult road to recovery. A thought-provoking read.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars (out of 5) ⚠️ Content warning: includes child abuse and suicidal ideation.
Synopsis:Nobody’s Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre is a powerful memoir recounting her life, from childhood abuse and a difficult adolescence to her grooming and trafficking by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Giuffre describes the abuse she endured, her encounters with powerful and influential men, and her eventual escape and determination to speak out. The book also follows her fight for justice and her work to advocate for other survivors, offering a deeply personal account of trauma, resilience and finding the strength to reclaim her voice.
Review: I ran with the memoir month and decided to read another one, this time borrowed from someone at book club. This was a particularly hard read and ultimately a very sad story, with layer upon layer of abuse suffered by the author throughout her childhood and early adulthood. It’s a difficult but powerful account that really stays with you.
Synopsis:The Children of Jocasta by Natalie Haynes reimagines the myth of Oedipus through the perspectives of Jocasta and her daughter Ismene. The novel explores their lives within a troubled royal family, as secrets, violence and fate shape their relationships and choices. Moving between their perspectives, Haynes offers a powerful retelling of a familiar Greek tragedy, examining motherhood, family, power and the consequences of living in the shadow of a devastating prophecy.
Review: I love a Greek myth retelling, so I was excited to read The Children of Jocasta, but unfortunately I didn’t really gel with the characters. I also found the dual timelines a little irritating at times, and while nobody necessarily wants to read about incestuous relationships, that is such a central part of the tragedy of Oedipus that I felt some of the drama was lost by offering a different explanation. That said, it was well written and an interesting take on a familiar story, and I would definitely read more by Natalie Haynes.
Synopsis:The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern follows Zachary Ezra Rawlins, a graduate student who discovers a mysterious book containing a story from his own childhood. Following a series of strange clues, he is drawn into a secret underground world filled with books, myths, pirates and hidden doors. As Zachary explores this magical labyrinth with Mirabel and Dorian, he uncovers its secrets and finds himself caught up in a battle to protect this extraordinary world and the stories within it.
Review: I really wanted to love this book as much as I loved The Night Circus. Whilst it was beautifully written and had that same magical, atmospheric quality, it just didn’t grab me in quite the same way. At times I found it a little confusing with so many different storylines woven together, and some of it was just so wonderfully strange that I wasn’t always sure what was going on. That said, there was something “achingly beautiful” about it, and I can appreciate the magic even if it wasn’t quite the book I hoped it would be.
All the books so far
Don’t want to scroll and look for all the books that I’ve read so far? Well I’ve put together a handy list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list
Looking Ahead to More Reading
Another month, another excuse to add a few more books to the ever growing TBR. I’ve discovered so many books through other people’s suggestions, whether in person or in book clubs, that I may not have picked up otherwise. But I’m always keen to hear what you’ve been reading too – let me know if the comments below. 📖✨
Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!
P.S. I’d love to stay connected with you so please do sign up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, giveaways, special offers or new pattern releases are available.
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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.
The cosy season is coming up again, and I’m delighted to be taking part in the Fireside Comfort Blog hop for a third year, hosted by Ambassador Crochet.
Throughout October you can discover a lovely collection of crochet patterns from some fabulous designers – and yes I’ll be sharing a little something as well.
If you’ve never joined a crochet blog hop before, think of it as a fun, online event created by the crochet blogging community. It’s kind of like a virtual scavenger hunt – along the way, you’ll discover amazing new designers to follow and grab some free patterns! You’ll ‘hop’ from one designer’s blog to the next to get the pattern details. This not only helps us designers grow our businesses (thank you so much!) but also lets you score free or discounted crochet patterns for yourself – win-win!
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% offsale, giving you a fantastic opportunity to stock up on some fabulous crochet designs.
Beginning Thursday 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!
This time, I’m extra excited because I have not one, but TWO brand-new patterns to share with you – each featured on a different day! I’m keeping the dates a surprise for now, so be sure to check back here and follow along on social media for the links and coupon codes when my patterns go live. There’s so much to look forward to – blankets, pot-holders, baskets, cushions, and more…
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 patterns for only £9.78 / $12.99. ! This pattern bundle won’t last for long – it’s only available until the end of October 2026.
The bundle includes all designs featured in the event bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns at your convenience.
Whether you’re ready to kick off your holiday crafting or just want a cosy new project for those chilly nights by the fire, the Fireside Blog Hop has you covered! Follow along each day so you don’t miss a single limited-time deal. Let’s make this October our cosiest, most creative one yet
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
Subscribe to the blog:
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.
September is going by so quickly that I’ve almost run out of time to tell you all about Montague Mallowpatch the Mole! The latest issue of Inside Crochet goes on sale this Thursday, but until then, you might still be able to pick up a copy of the current issue (192) in the shops and this this little fellow for yourself. He’s the perfect little project for the garden-loving friends and family in your life! 🌱
Montague is a gentle, harvest-loving little mole who can often be found popping up through the soil to check on his golden pumpkins. He carries a woven basket in his paws, perfect for gathering seeds or cradling a newly picked pumpkin. And, of course, no little gardner helper would be complete without his trusty pair of wellies!
I absolutely love the character of this little chap, I tried to keep his style wonderfully cosy, and if he had a storybook feel about him – perfect for celebrating the arrival of autumn. He would make the perfect little gift for the garden-loving friends and family in your life, especially those who enjoy a little bit of autumnal magic!
For my Monty I used some Ricorumi DK which is a firm favourite yarn of mine. Ricorumi DK is a 100% cotton yarn that comes in 25g balls [57.5m] in that’s available in lots of solid shades.
The Montague Mallowpatch the Mole crochet pattern is available in Issue 192 of Inside Crochet magazine,which is on sale now, available from all good newsagents and craft stores. To purchase a digital copy of Inside Crochet, visit www.pocketmags.com.
I think Monty would look adorable tucked amongst your autumn decorations, sitting alongside a pumpkin display or simply perched somewhere around the home where he can keep an eye on his precious pumpkin patch!
Please share your makes with me on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk – I always love seeing your projects.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
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, thank you for your support.
Hey there, crochet friends! This post is long overdue. From the summer onwards, the end of last year was so full on that I feel like I’m still only just catching up with some overdue pattern releases! Before we say good bye to the sun let me introduce to you the The Yarnival Bag.
As with our previous collaborations, the kit was something really special. It included beautiful hand-dyed yarn by Jess, a brand new pattern designed by me, and some wonderful goodies from Amanda that added those perfect finishing touches.
The yarns that Jess created for this year’s project was just stunning as always! The colourways, called Penny Arcade (100g), Candyfloss Kiss (20g), Carousel Gleam (20g), Lemonade Lane (20g), Pistachio Swing (20g) and Wurlitzer Waltz(20g), brought to mind old fashioned carnival and fairground vibes and worked so beautifully together.
The base itself was the softest blend of DK (light worsted) yarn: 85% Superwash Merino Wool Yarn and 15% Nylon – it really was lovely yarn to work with.
You actually work the design onto a pre-made DIY Bag Bottom (readily available from various places, though I got mine from Amazon) which combined with structured stitches makes a nice sturdy bag.
Much like a yarn-filled carnival, this bag has lots of colour and texture, and brings all the fun of the fair into a practical everyday bag. I wanted it to be functional and fabulous and I love how it turned out.
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The The Yarnival Bag is now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms, it’s also available as a physical pattern from my Etsy shop – or you can pick it up when you see me at a yarn show:
This really is the perfect bag to take out and about. I absolutely love a crossbody bag, they’re just so handy! Whether you’re heading to a yarn festival, popping into town, or going for a casual day out, having your hands free while still carrying your essentials is such a win.
I can’t wait to see your versions of The Yarnival Bag – please tag me on social media (facebook or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.
Make sure you’re signed up to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list so you never miss new posts, pattern releases, or exclusive discounts!
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Subscribe to the blog:
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.
Now that autumn is here, my thoughts are starting to turn towards pop-up shops, yarn shows and getting ready for what is always one of my favourite, and busiest, times of the year!
Whilst I spend much of my time working away behind the scenes on Keep Calm and Crochet On,Yarny Bobsand Dear Ewe, there is something I really love about packing everything up and taking the little businesses out and about. Over the next few months, I will be, alongside my lovely helper mum, be busy preparing for pop-up shops and yarn shows, packing up plenty of our crochet kits, patterns, mugs, bags and more, and getting ready to meet lots of fellow makers along the way,
Come and Say Hello
One of mine and mums favourite things about taking the businesses to events is getting to meet the people behind the projects. There is nothing quite like chatting to fellow makers, hearing about what they are currently working on, or living vicariously through your purchases.
This autumn we’ll be bringing together a little bit of everything from across the three businesses including:
Yarny treats
Crochet kits and creative projects
Crochet patterns and new releases
Show specials and exclusive offers
A few new thing that you may not find anywhere else!
We’ll also have plenty of ideas and inspiration to help you find something perfect for your next make.
Our Autumn 2026 Events
Crochet Sanctuary Pop Up Shop, 18th – 20thSeptember 2026, Cranage Hall, Cheshire.
If you are one of the people that have booked onto The Crochet Sanctuary weekend this September, we’re looking forward to bringing along some lovely new things to share with you!
We’re hoping to have two brand-new Christmas bauble kits with us (which we know you all love!) alongside some other favourite bits and bobs.
Stafford Wool Gathering, 17th – 18th October 2026, Staffordshire County Showground, Stafford.
We are delighted to be back for the 2nd Stafford Wool Gathering (Saturday – 10am-4.30pm, Sunday – 10am-4pm) at Staffordshire County Showground. You can find out how to purchase tickets on the Staffordshire Wool Gathering website.
At the show you can expect over 100 exhibitors showcasing their skills and offering everything you need. Or you might also wish to take part in the range of workshops on offer to learn and improve on your own skills.
This is a wonderful regular artisan market showcasing local craft, art, food & drink, and original work. This will be a return visit for us for a fourth year and although the makers markets runs on various weekends through out the year we’ll be there for Christmas Makers Market on Saturday 28 November and Sunday 29 November only.
We are delighted to also be popping up at The Crochet Sanctuary again for their Christmas Craft Cream Tea. These are always a wonderfully cosy day celebrating all things crafty! It’s not just for crocheters either – it’s for anyone who enjoys crafting and wants to treat themselves to the perfect pre-Christmas afternoon surrounded by fellow creative people.
And most importantly, at the time of writing this, there were still a few places left – so book on now and we’ll see you there!
Whether you’re visiting specifically to see us or simply happen to spot our stand while you’re browsing, we’d absolutely love it if you stopped by to say hello and have a chat. We hope to see you soon!
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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Hey lovelies, I hope you’re all doing well! I know I’m a little late again with this post, but with the school holidays are keeping me busy, June’s books are making their appearance a little later than planned. I’ve still been making plenty of time for reading whenever I can, though, including on a nice family holiday, and I’ve loved getting lost in a mix of familiar favourites and books that were completely new to me.
June was definitely one of those months where reading came in all sorts of shapes and moods, and I can’t quite believe how quickly we’ve already reached the halfway point of the year! Some books were quick little reads that I flew through, while others took a little longer to settle into, but each one brought something different. I’ve also really enjoyed picking up recommendations at book clubs that I probably wouldn’t have chosen for myself previously, and it’s been lovely discovering some unexpected great reads along the way.
Reminder: The Vision for the Book Afghan
To maintain cohesion, I’ve used the same block pattern for the entire afghan (grab the free pattern here), working with yarn from my stash and selecting 4 colours that reflect and are closest to (as I’m not buying new yarn!) the book’s cover design.
Here’s what I accomplished in June 2026:
Total Books Read: and Squares Completed: 9 / 18
Total New Authors to me this month: 5
Running total of new authors so far 24 / 50 (Almost half way at the half way point – hurrah!)
Synopsis:Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating historical novel set during NASA’s Space Shuttle programme in the 1980s. The story follows Joan Goodwin, a brilliant astronomy professor who is selected to join NASA’s space shuttle training programme. As she prepares for a mission that will take her into space, Joan forms deep connections with the other astronauts and finds herself questioning the life she has built on Earth. Blending ambition, love, friendship and the dangers of space exploration, the novel explores what it means to reach for the impossible.
Review: This was a really engaging novel, and the opening chapters immediately drew me in, although I felt the pace slowed a little after that. The strongest parts for me were the scenes set in space, which I found particularly captivating. I did enjoy the central love story, but it didn’t quite blow me away. Overall, a good read with some really strong moments, particularly when the story ventured into space.
Synopsis:Into the Fire by M. J. Arlidge is the thirteenth book in the DI Helen Grace series. Helen finds herself facing another dangerous and complex investigation when a seemingly random act of violence exposes a darker threat. As the case unfolds, Helen and her team must race against time to uncover the truth while confronting danger from unexpected directions. Packed with tension, twists and the fast-paced storytelling the series is known for, the novel puts Helen through another gripping and deadly investigation.
Review: Another great read featuring Helen Grace. I was hooked from the start and found this to be a gripping addition to the series. The tension really builds towards the ending, which definitely left me wanting more. A thoroughly enjoyable read and well worth picking up if you’re a fan of the series. I can’t wait for the next one to be released!
Synopsis:Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke follows Natalie Heller Mills, a hugely successful “tradwife” influencer who has built her online empire around an idealised version of traditional family life. But one morning she wakes up to find herself living that life for real—in the brutal reality of 1855, without the modern comforts and conveniences she has taken for granted. As Natalie struggles to survive, she must work out whether she has travelled through time, been caught in an elaborate hoax, or something far more sinister is happening.
Review: I picked this up because of all the hype and it turned out to be such a weird book! Despite the main character being incredibly unlikeable, I found it strangely compelling and couldn’t stop reading. I deliberately went in blind without knowing too much about the story, and it definitely didn’t turn out the way I expected. An interesting and clever read, with a twist at the end that I really didn’t see coming.
Synopsis:Keep It in the Family by John Marrs is a dark psychological thriller about Mia and Finn, a young couple renovating their new home while preparing for the arrival of their first baby. When Mia discovers a chilling message hidden in the house, Finn investigates the attic and uncovers evidence of horrific crimes committed there. As Mia becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the house’s disturbing history, she begins to realise that some secrets may not belong entirely to the past – and that her own family could be in danger.
Review: I really enjoyed this thriller! It was packed with twists and turns and was a real page-turner that kept me hooked throughout. The fast pace and dark storyline made it very easy to keep reading, and I loved trying to work out what was going to happen next. I’d highly recommend this to anyone who loves a fast-paced serial killer thriller.
Synopsis:The Girl in the Cellar by Maryann Webb is a dark psychological thriller following Izzy Blake, who has been held captive and chained in a cellar for almost a year. Her world changes when a woman enters the cellar, and Izzy quickly realises she is the wife of the man who has been keeping her prisoner. With danger closing in and secrets beginning to surface, both women must find a way to survive. A tense and twisty story exploring captivity, abuse, fear and the secrets hidden behind closed doors.
Review: This was a really compelling, fast-paced and nicely twisty read that kept me turning the pages. I know a lot of people didn’t like the ending, but I actually thought it worked quite well and tied everything up nicely. There were plenty of twists along the way to keep me guessing, making this an enjoyable and entertaining thriller.
Synopsis:Such Quiet Girls by Noelle W. Ihli is a tense psychological thriller inspired by true events. When a school bus is hijacked in broad daylight, driver Jessa and ten children are kidnapped and buried underground inside a shipping container. With the air running out and their captors demanding a ransom, Jessa and twelve-year-old Sage must find a way to keep the children calm and work together to outsmart their kidnappers before it’s too late
Review: This was a fast-paced and emotionally charged read that had me hooked from the start. Although the premise might seem far-fetched, I couldn’t believe it was actually inspired by real events, which made the story even more unsettling. This was my first time reading Noelle W. Ihli, but I don’t think it will be my last!
Synopsis:Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe follows twenty-year-old Margo Millet, who finds herself pregnant after an affair with her college English professor. Suddenly a single mother with an infant, no job and mounting financial worries, Margo needs to find a way to support herself and her baby. With help from her estranged ex-wrestler father and her flatmate, she turns to OnlyFans, where her creativity and storytelling soon make her an unexpected online success. But as her new career takes off, Margo discovers that internet fame comes with its own complications and challenges.
Review: I picked this up because of all the hype but wasn’t really sure what to expect. It turned out to be a really unique story, with interesting and wonderfully flawed characters. It offers a sensitive look at single parenthood, drug abuse and sex work, while still being witty, warm and surprisingly funny. A really enjoyable and different read.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 stars (out of 5) ⚠️ Content warning: includes strong descriptions of violence and abuse of all kinds against women.
Synopsis:The Book of the Unnamed Midwife by Meg Elison is a gripping post-apocalyptic novel set after a devastating plague has wiped out most of humanity, with women and children particularly badly affected. An unnamed midwife survives the disease and awakens to a world where civilisation has collapsed and women are dangerously scarce. Disguising herself as a man and travelling under false names, she journeys through the ruined United States, using her medical skills to help others while doing everything she can to survive.
Review: I feel a bit haunted by this book. It was gripping from the start, bleak in places, and some parts were quite shocking and difficult to read. The characters felt believable, and the story was thought-provoking throughout. Really well written and definitely a book that has stayed with me. As the first in a trilogy, I’m going to have to read the rest!
Synopsis:The Measure by Nikki Erlick is a thought-provoking speculative novel set in a world where mysterious wooden boxes suddenly appear on everyone’s doorstep. Inside each box is a string revealing the exact number of years that person has left to live. As people struggle with whether to discover their fate, society begins to change, and relationships, careers and life choices are affected by this extraordinary knowledge. Through the interconnected stories of several characters, the novel explores love, friendship, destiny and what it really means to make the most of the time we have.
Review: I thought the premise of this book was really interesting, and I particularly enjoyed the first half. I liked how all the characters’ lives were entwined and how the story developed with various twists along the way. The ending worked well for me and gave me all the answers I needed about everyone’s story. Overall, an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
All the books so far
Don’t want to scroll and look for all the books that I’ve read so far? Well I’ve put together a handy list in my Amazon storefront so you can see all the books in one place: Go to the book list
Looking Ahead to Summer Reading
As we continue into the summer, I’m looking forward to another month of reading, discovering new stories and hopefully finding a few more unexpected favourites along the way. I’m still loving being part of three book clubs, and my TBR seems to be growing faster than I can work my way through it thanks to all the brilliant recommendations!
So, as always, I need to know… what should I be reading next? Whether it’s a thriller, historical fiction, memoir or something completely outside my usual picks, I’d love to hear your recommendations and add a few more to the ever-growing list. After all, every great suggestion could become another square on the blanket! 🧶📚✨
Stay tuned for next month’s updates. Until then, happy hooking and happy reading!
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