Hi folks! 👋 I’m really excited to share that one of my older designs has had a little refresh and is now back again – the Retro Gamer Cushion!
A Nostalgic Crochet Project
Originally published in Simply Crochet Magazine, this fun design was inspired by the classic arcade game Space Invaders, one of the earliest video games released back in 1978 and widely considered a pioneer of modern gaming. Even though the game was created before I was born, I definitely remember playing it as a child – usually on an old arcade machine somewhere like a caravan park or seaside arcade.
That retro gaming aesthetic has always been fun and colourful, so I wanted to capture that nostalgic feel in crochet form, and I thought corner to corner technique would be ideal. The result is a bright and playful cushion cover featuring a pixel-style alien motif that any gaming fan will instantly recognise. Whether it’s for a gamer’s bedroom, a cosy corner of the sofa, or a quirky handmade gift, it’s a really fun make.
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It’s a great project if you enjoy colourwork and want something a little different from traditional crochet home décor. My version now has a home in my teenage daughter’s room, as she’s a big fan of gaming and loved the retro design. 🎮
This pattern will be available in this year’s A Geeks & Gamers Crochet Blog Hop hosted by Green Fox Farms Designs. Each day features a limited-time free or discounted pattern designed for real use at game nights, conventions, and everyday fandom life.
🎮 Blog Hop Instructions:
Go to the main roundup post and scroll to 11 March 2026 entry.
Scroll down the post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom. 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!
🎮 Missed a Day? Get the Bundle
If you don’t want to hop from blog to blog every day or you missed a day and love the patterns, there is also a pattern bundle option where you can grab all of the patterns from the event at a big discount.
🎮 Share your makes
If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the Retro Gamer Cushion from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)
I can’t wait to see your versions of the Retro Gamer Cushion. 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.
Hey lovelies, do you love crochet and gaming and fantasy and that sort of thing? – great, then you’re in the right place! 🎮 I’m delighted to be participating in the A Geeks & Gamers Crochet Blog Hop, hosted by the Green Fox Farms Designs.
🎮 What’s the Geeks and Gamers Hop?
The Geeks & Gamers Blog Hop 2026 is a 15-day crochet event running from 9 – 23 March 2026 which focuses on gaming crochet and crochet ‘geek’ patterns inspired by tabletop games, fantasy books, and video game culture. Each day features a limited-time free or discounted pattern designed for real use at game nights, conventions, and everyday fandom life.
The geeky crochet gifts are perfect for all kinds of gamers and fantasy fans, including:
Tabletop RPG players and dice collectors
Video gamers who love cosy handmade accessories
Fantasy readers and dragon lovers
Friends and siblings who game together
Dads, mums, and partners who enjoy game night
Teens who live for anime, gaming, and fandoms
Comic con and gaming convention goers
Bookworms who love fantasy and sci-fi worlds 🎮🧶📚
🎮 How the Blog Hop Works
Joining the Geeks & Gamers Blog Hop is easy! Each day of the event:
A new crochet pattern is featured.
The pattern will be FREE or 50% OFF for 24 hours only.
You’ll hop to the designer’s blog to grab the pattern.
The featured design will be available during a 24-hour flash sale window, so make sure you grab it while you can!
🎮 Crochet Gifts for Every Fan
Each morning during the Hop a new pattern is added to the main Hop post.
Click through to the featured designer’s page and download the PDF (Free or 50% off)
Gather your yarn and hooks, choose your colours, and create away
If you don’t want to hop from blog to blog every day, there is also a pattern bundle option where you can grab all of the patterns from the event at a huge discount.
Perfect if you love geeky crochet and want the entire collection right away.
🎮Share the love:
Designers participate in blog hops to share their patterns with a wider audience, support fellow creators, and introduce new crocheters to their work. It’s a fun, collaborative way to build community, boost visibility, and offer makers exciting new projects to enjoy together.
Please make sure to share your appreciation with all the designers taking part by giving them and me a ‘heart’ on Ravelry and / or if you like their stuff, a follow on socials – every little interaction really helps us as designers to keep on designing.
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.
Today I’m delighted to share one of my latest designs that’s been featured in Inside Crochet Magazine Issue 187. Allow me to introduce the Pemberley Lace Shawl, a delicate, lightweight shawl with a beautiful flowing lace pattern that feels elegant and timeless to wear.
The inspiration for this design actually began as a little daydream. In my head I imagined a shawl that felt modern enough to wear today, yet also something Elizabeth Bennet herself might have draped around her shoulders as she walked the grounds of Pemberley. That romantic image stayed with me throughout the design process – and of course it’s exactly where the name came from.
The finished shawl is lovely and generous in size, but still wonderfully lightweight thanks to the yarn and delicate lace stitches. It drapes beautifully and works just as well wrapped around your shoulders as it does worn as a large scarf.
Although the lace looks intricate, it’s actually a very mindful crochet project. Once you’ve worked the setup and become familiar with the triangular shaping, the stitch pattern settles into a gentle two-row repeat that quickly becomes relaxing and rhythmic – perfect for those cosy evenings when you want something soothing to crochet.
For this design I used Sirdar Shawlie with 3.25mm (US size D/3) hook. Sirdar Shawlie is a fine, feather-light shawl yarn enriched with alpaca and wool (10% Wool, 80% Acrylic, 10% Alpaca). It comes in 100g balls with approximately 450m / 492yds of yarn and is a self-striping sport weight (sits between 4-ply and DK) yarn with colours inspired by vintage flowers.
The shade I chose was Chrysanthemum (203), which is a gorgeous blend of sunny yellows and warm golden tones that softly shift as you crochet using. It really highlights the lace stitches beautifully, though there are several other equally pretty shades in the range if you prefer a different palette.
To finish the design, I added a lovely long fringe along the outer edge which just completes the shawl perfectly and gives it a little extra movement and, I think, elegance.
The Pemberley Lace Shawl pattern is available in Issue 187 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. Be sure to share your makes on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk —I always love seeing what you create.
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.
Although it’s been raining (ALOT) here in the UK, with a slight raise in temperature the last couple of days I really am beginning to think that Spring is definitely (finally) on the way! I therefore couldn’t be more excited to share not one but two fresh and floral-filled crochet designs in the latest issue of Crochet Now magazine.
There’s something so nice about a wreath – it instantly makes a space feel welcoming, and my In Bloom Wreath is designed to do exactly that.
Made up of a variety of seasonal blooms in soft, fresh shades, this project combines different flower styles and textures to create a wonderfully full and layered look. Think delicate blossoms, cheerful pops of colour, leafy accents and sweet little buds all nestled together on a circular base.
For my wreath I used King Cole Giza Cotton 4 Ply (fingering weight) yarn made from 100% mercerised Egyptian cotton with a 3mm (Closest US size 3.25mm / D/3). Each 50g ball includes approximately 158 metres of yarn so I had more than enough to make my flowers – in fact there was enough left to make even more bouquets.
Each flower is crocheted separately, making this a lovely pick-up-and-put-down project. It’s perfect for relaxed evening stitching, and you can easily customise the colours to suit your décor – go pastel and subtle, or bright and bold for maximum impact!
Say hello to Bulb Buddies – two adorable amigurumi bulbs who are just starting to sprout into bloom! One grows into a sweet tulip, while the other blossoms into a cheerful daffodil.
These little characters are full of personality and would make the cutest spring companions for a shelf, desk, or windowsill. They’re relatively quick to stitch and perfect if you fancy another seasonal project after completing the wreath.
Designed as a joyful reminder that spring is all about new beginnings, they’re sweet, they’re snuggly, and the perfect pals for playful springtime hugs.
Issue 131 of Crochet Now is leaning into all the seasonal blooms and happy vibes. Whether you’re stitching for a gift or just whipping up something cheerful for your home, there are many seasonal designs to choose from which are bound to brighten your day.
Whether you start with the In Bloom Wreath as a statement piece or dive straight into the The Bulb Buddies for a quick dose of cuteness, I hope these designs bring a little extra Spring sunshine to your crochet time.
I’d love to see your versions of the In Bloom Wreath or The Bulb Buddies – snap a pic and tag me on social if you give it a go! Share your creations on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk so I can admire all your colourful, sparkly results!
Until next time — 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.
January was a cosy month of yarn, hooks, and literary inspiration as I dive into my 2026 Crochet Book Blanket project. This year, I’m combining my love of reading and crochet with a fun twist – aiming to explore 50 new authors and capture each book in its own colourful square. I can’t wait to share my progress, the stories I discover, and the stitches they inspire along the way.
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:Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Titan’s Curse is the third instalment of the series by Rick Riordan. It follows Percy as he joins a dangerous quest to rescue the goddess Artemis. Alongside new allies and familiar friends, he faces powerful enemies, ominous prophecies, and escalating threats from the Titans.
Review: This was another entertaining, action-packed part of the saga. Full of humour, mythological twists, and nonstop adventure, this one kept me completely hooked — and I definitely want to see what happens next in Percy’s journey.
Synopsis: My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite follows Korede, a responsible nurse who repeatedly cleans up after her younger sister Ayoola, whose boyfriends keep ending up dead. Loyalty and morality collide when Ayoola becomes interested in the man Korede secretly loves.
Review: This was my first time reading Oyinkan Braithwaite, a new author to me, and I really enjoyed the plot. The question of how far you’d go for a sister who is a serial killer was gripping. I loved the African cultural elements, though the ending felt a bit like “then what?” for me. Still, a sharp and engaging read.
Synopsis:Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan follows Percy and his friends as they venture into the ever-changing Labyrinth to stop Luke and the Titans from invading Camp Half-Blood. Along the way, they face dangerous creatures, unexpected alliances, and revelations that test their courage and loyalty.
Review: An enjoyable fourth book in the series, full of twists and strong character development. I especially loved how the story weaves mythical history seamlessly into the plot, making the adventure feel both exciting and richly layered.
Synopsis: Watching You by Lisa Jewell is a psychological thriller set in a picturesque Bristol neighbourhood where everyone seems to be observing everyone else. When a murder shatters the community, secrets, obsessions, and hidden connections gradually surface.
Review: Overall, a good read, though I wasn’t as gripped by this one as I’ve been with other Lisa Jewell novels. Still, it’s engaging and would make a great holiday read.
Synopsis: 25 Library Terrace by Natalie Fergie centres on the intertwined lives connected to a single address, moving between past and present. As the history of the house unfolds, long-buried secrets, relationships, and emotional turning points are gradually revealed, shaping the characters’ choices and futures.
Review: Natalie Fergie was a new author for me, and after reading the reviews I was expecting a heartwarming tale. I particularly enjoyed the more historical opening third of the book, but as the story progressed it felt somewhat disjointed. I found myself more curious about how it would end than fully immersed. While some threads were tied up, the conclusion still felt a bit abrupt.
Synopsis: All Fall Down by M. J. Arlidge follows DI Helen Grace as she investigates a chilling case involving victims who are abducted and placed into life-or-death situations. As the body count rises, Helen and her team must unravel the motive behind the killer’s deadly “game,” while internal tensions and personal stakes complicate the pursuit.
Review: This ninth book continues the series nicely and keeps the momentum going. However, I felt DS Hudson was becoming a bit of a caricature villain toward the end. Despite that, I’m still invested and plan to continue with the rest of the series.
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 February
I’m thrilled to keep turning the pages of this project! Each square has become a little bookmark in yarn, bringing the stories I’ve read to life one stitch at a time.
Are you joining in too? I’d love to hear how your reading and crochet adventures are going. Have a favourite book that you think would make a perfect square for my blanket? Let me know your suggestions in the comments below – I’m always on the lookout for the next story to stitch
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.
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.
Helloo lovely makers! Today I’m delighted to share one of my latest makes that’s been featured in Inside Crochet Magazine Issue 186. Allow me to introduce the Whispering Winds Wrap, a delicate, lightweight shawl that feels like you are wearing a soft breeze, and it has quickly become one of my all-time favourite mindful makes.
The Whispering Winds Wrap is an airy triangular shawl worked from the bottom up. For this design I used Rico Design Fashion Mohair Rainbows a soft and dreamy yarn made of 20% Polyester, 17% Wool and 63% Mohair with a with a 4.5mm (US size 7) hook.
It comes in 25 grams balls but has 100 metres, so a little goes a long way. I used 6 balls in shade 004 with a delightful rainbow gradient – lovely to work with rainbows during the grey dreary winter season. The finished shawl is ideal for those transitional days in spring and autumn when you want just that little bit of cosy softness against your shoulders.
Mohair yarn has a personality all its own, and working with it can feel wonderfully different from smoother fibres. It has a signature halo, that soft, misty cloud of fuzz around the yarn strand, that can give finished pieces an soft look that’s perfect for something like the Whispering Winds Wrap. Because of this halo, stitches appear softer and more blended, creating fabric that looks light as air while still providing surprising warmth.
Patience is your best friend when handling mohair. The delicate fibres can cling slightly to themselves, so working at a relaxed pace helps prevent snagging or splitting. If you need to undo stitches, do so slowly and gently to avoid tangling the halo. Many crocheters find that using a hook with a smooth, tapered head makes the process feel easier and more fluid.
Despite its airy feel, mohair is impressively warm. The fuzzy halo traps heat, making even lightweight wraps cosy and comforting. If you’re not familiar with using mohair, why not give it a try – you might like it. I’m actually planning to make another of these shawls at some point, I’ve got some lovely handdyed yarn, in a ocean themed colourway, that I think would just look so pretty made up as a new Whispering Winds Wrap.
Issue 186 of Inside Crochet is packed with beautifully soft and gentle projects to help restore your inner balance. Whether you’re in the mood for relaxing, mindful stitching or something cosy to snuggle into, there’s plenty inside to get you hooking.
Inside Crochet is available in paper form from all good newsagents and craft stores. To purchase a digital copy of Inside Crochet, visit www.pocketmags.com. Be sure to share your makes on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk —I always love seeing what you create.
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.
Disclaimer: I received a sample copy of the book on which this review is based. However I have not been financially compensated by the supplier, book company or the designer to write this review. All opinions expressed are my own and based on my own experiences of using the book / pattern. This post does contain affiliate links which means that I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through these links at no cost to you.
Edited: Congratulations to Maureen on the blog and Becky on Instagram who are the winners of this giveaway.
Today I’m sharing a look at a crochet book that’s a little bit different and a whole lot of fun. Mega Yummy Crochet by Miya, published by Zakka Workshop, is packed full of bold, playful amigurumi projects inspired by food – and not just any food, but gloriously oversized, joyful, huggable versions of it. If you enjoy crochet that makes you smile as you stitch, this is definitely a book worth taking a closer look at.
📌 Pin for Later
✍🏼 A bit about the author:
Miya has been crafting amigurumi since 2001. As well as being an author of multiple books published in Japan, she’s a practicing clinical psychologist who truly appreciates the positive effects that creative handiwork can have on our wellbeing. You can find Miya’s work on Instagram via @miya_amigurumi.
📖 What’s Inside the Book?
From donuts and macarons to hotdogs and hamburgers, and even some traditional Japanese sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. With over 26 unique patterns to explore, there’s plenty to keep your hooks busy. The book includes patterns for:
French Cruller (White Chocolate)
French Cruller (Strawberry Chocolate)
Donut (Strawberry)
Donut (Mint Chocolate)
Donut (Banana Chocolate)
Macaron (Mint x Blueberry)
Macaron (Strawberry x Cherry)
Macaron (Lemon x Lime)
Ice Cream Cone (Strawberry Single Scoop)
Ice Cream Cone (Lime & Orange Double Scoop)
Lollipop
Polka Dot Candy
Striped Candy
Burger
Hot Dog
Egg on Toast
Naked Cake
Strawberry Cupcake
Chocolate Roll Cake
Strawberry Shortcake
Fruit Tarte
Mousse au Citron
Charlotte Cake
Custard
Pancakes
Cream Soda
Nerikiri / Chrysanthemum
Nerikiri / Clematis
Sakura Mochi
Taiyaki
💡 Who Is This Book For?
If you love playful crochet projects, enjoy working with amigurumi, or want something that’s a little out of the ordinary, this book would make a wonderful addition to your craft library. These oversized amigurumi make playful pillows and cushions, huggable toys, or decorative objects perfect for kids, pets, and the young at heart. I know my teenager would just love the burger cushion for her room, and my youngest would probably love all of them to fill her room, but I think she’d especially like the strawberry donut!
I really liked the mix of fun food items; I had no idea what a cruller was before reading this book (though now I very much want to try one!), and it’s a lovely touch that Miya has included Japanese treats she would be familiar with, as it adds a lovely cultural flavour to the collection. I love the variety of food designs included, from sweet treats to more savoury options, which keeps things interesting and fun to try.
There are several things I really love about this book, starting with the clear and easy-to-follow instructions. The book includes the patterns, charts and helpful illustrations. There are also some step by step photos, but not for every project. One thing I did notice was there is no gauge information, so your finished project size may vary depending on personal tension.
One thing to note is that the book doesn’t specify skill levels for each project, so some patterns will naturally be easier than others. While many of the designs are still approachable, I’d say this book is really well suited to intermediate crocheters. Projects like the macarons or small pastries could be tackled by confident beginners, but the larger, more intricate items, like the burgers or layered cakes, might require a bit more experience and patience.
Obviously one of the most unique things about this book is the scale of the projects – the projects range in size from 12cm (5″) tall to 69cm (27)″ long. The amigurumi are deliberately oversized, making them incredibly playful, satisfying to make, and perfect for statement pieces or gifts. The book calls for yarn held double to achieve the oversized amigurumi, but you could easily use the same patterns with a single strand (or thinner yarn) to make smaller versions too.
All you need to do to enter the giveaway is either leave a comment on the bottom of this blog post (or on my Instagram post about the giveaway) about which food item you would like to make first and why.
The competition closes on Friday 13 February at 7pm (GMT). Winners will be contacted via the email supplied from their comment or by DM on social media, by Monday 16 February, and will be expected to provide a full name and postal address to claim their prize.The competition is opened worldwide.
I’d like to say a big thank you again to Zakka Workshop for offering this special deal to my lovely KCACO.UK readers! Good Luck everyone!
🌐Stay connected
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.
Until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Hey there crochet friends! I’ve got a new free pattern for you today – and it’s one that beautifully balances cosy comfort with classic style. Allow me to introduce the Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap, a crochet design that embraces the perfect blend of function and understated elegance.
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The Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap was originally featured in the December 2024 issue of I Like Crochet magazine and features a timeless houndstooth stitch pattern. It’s size makes it a versatile addition to any winter wardrobe; it’s the kind of wrap you’ll reach for again and again, pairing just as well with casual layers as it does with more dressed-up looks.
This pattern is wonderfully easy to follow, making it perfect for confident beginners and anyone looking for a relaxing, enjoyable project. The stitch repeat is simple yet memorable, quickly becoming second nature as you work, so you can crochet without constantly referring back to the pattern. Despite its straightforward construction, the repeating stitch creates a beautifully textured houndstooth effect, giving the wrap a polished, impressive finish that looks far more complex than it actually is.
I created my wrap in Scheepjes Colour Crafter DK in 1005 Barneveld CC1 (3 balls), 1710 Ermelo CC2 (3 balls) and with the pop of 1680 Ameland CC3 (1 balls). Scheepjes Colour Crafter DK (light worsted) premium 100% Acrylic yarn (300 meters / 100 grams) which comes in a range of different colours. I really like this yarn, and have used it many times before, as it’s hypoallergenic and features a special anti-pilling quality, ensuring your handmade items stay smooth and look new, wash after wash.
Recommended crochet hook size for the DK is a 4mm hook (US G/6) hook, which is what I used, then the only other thing you will need for your wrap project is a tapestry needle and possibly some some stitch markers to help mark the start and finish of each row.
The PDF for this pattern will be available for free for 24hrsonly (2pm to 2am GMT / 9am to 9pm EST) on Wednesday 28 January 2026 as part Bundle Up blog-hop, curated by The Crochet Village.
Blog Hop Instructions:
Go to the main roundup post and scroll to Wednesday 28 January entry.
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)
I can’t wait to see your versions of the Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap. 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.
Stitches (st): Stitch abbreviations st or sts stand for “stitch” or “stitches”
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over the hook from back to front and draw it through the slip knot (or previous chain) to form a new loop on the hook.
Single crochet (sc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop [two loops on hook], yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Double Crochet (dc): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
PATTERN NOTES:
Gauge: 3 ‘houndstooth’ stitches = 1.3 inch / 3.5 cm. Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical for this project.
Make the shawl width bigger or smaller by making the beginning chain in a multiple of 2+1
The shawl is also easily adjustable by working less or more rows to begin with.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
CHANGING COLOURS
When changing to a different colour, pull the new colour through the last loops of the previous st to complete that st.
When changing to and from a colour carry the unused coloured yarn along the wrong side of the work loosely so that the work does not gather. Crochet over the unused colour as they are carried along; this will hide the strands of yarn invisibly and eliminate long unused strands.
Change colour every alternate row carrying your yarn along the sides of your work.
PATTERN
The ch1 at the beginning of a row does not count as a st.
The ch3 at the beginning of a row or round counts as the first dc.
Row 1: (RS) With YARN A; ch 81, 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook, 1 dc in next ch, [1 sc in next st, 1 dc in next st] repeat across until end, turn. (80 sts)
Row 2: With YARN B; Ch 1, [1 sc in next st on top of dc of previous row, 1 dc in next st on top of sc of previous row] across until end, turn.
Rows 3 – 255: Repeat row 2 for the pattern while alternating colors A and B with each row. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Edging :
Row 1: With YARN C, loosely sl st along the edge of the right side of rows 1 – 255; then working into the sl sts, ch 1, * 1 sc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st; rep from * across until end, turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, [1 sc in next st on top of dc of previous row, 1 dc in next st on top of sc of previous row] across until end, turn. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Rows 3 – 4: Repeat rows 1 – 2 on the other edge of rows 1 – 255. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Blocking:
The design of this shawl may benefit from being wet blocked.
Leave to dry completely over 24 hours, and then unpin.
Completely soak your item in cold water then gently squeeze (without wringing it) out some of the excess water.
Using your tape measure and pins carefully pin your item on your blocking board
Double check your measurements if necessary (e.g. check the height and width are correct).
An that’s it! I hope you enjoy your Frosted Forest Houndstooth Wrap. 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.
If there’s one thing that sits right at the heart of my creative life, it’s the cosy intersection between a good book and a warm crochet blanket project. Last year I kicked off my very first Book Blanket Challenge, combining my love of reading with my passion for crochet – and what a joy that journey was! I’m still putting together the blanket for 2025, but that hasn’t stopped me from starting this years plans.
This year I’m taking things in a new direction — not just for a new blanket project, but expanding my reading horizons more intentionally. My aim for 2026 is to read books by at least 50 NEW authors – authors whose voices, stories and styles I haven’t encountered before. And just like last year, each book will be represented with crochet blocks in my book blanket!
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Why a Book Blanket?
For me, this project is more than a list of titles or a stack of yarn squares, it’s a creative celebration of time spent curled up in vivid worlds, learning from new voices, and connecting stories with stitch. It gives every book a place in history… and every stitch a story.
This challenge also gives purpose to my yarn stash, turning leftovers into colourful memories that mark everything I’ve read. Last years blanket caused a nice dent in the stash, but as you can imagine I have SOOOOO much more to use.
My 2026 Plan
Here’s how I’m approaching this year’s challenge:
📚 1. New Authors, New Adventures – 50 to Discover My core intention for 2026 is to read books by 50 different authors I haven’t read before – stretching my reading palette with fresh perspectives and styles. When I find a book by an author I’ve already read, it’s still welcome and it will be included but I’m excited to include intentionally new authors to me.
🧶 2. Two Squares for Every Book For every book finished, I’ll crochet two blocks that reflect its cover colours. The blanket will continue to grow in colour as the stories stack up. This time however I’ll be adding the border colour as I go to make the task of joining them all together easier at the end – something I’ve learnt from not doing that last year.
📘 3. Track on Goodreads (and Here!) Just like last year, I’ll use Goodreads to track my reading progress and link back my monthly lists here on the blog so you can follow along – I’ll also start a new Amazon book list so you can see all the 2026 books together easily in one place as I read them.
🎨 4. Yarn from the Stash I’ll prioritise using stash yarn where I can, matching colours to book covers (as best I can stash dependent) using my trusty colour‑picker tool (https://coolors.co/image-picker) – and hopefully bust a bit more stash along the way! Last year I used all stash, though I did have to buy some more white for the borders of my squares.
📸 5. Share the Stories At the end of each subsequent month (so January squares will be posted in February, February squares in March etc):
I’ll share which books I read,
the authors behind them,
my thoughts on each book,
and the crochet squares I’ve made inspired by each book here on the blog.
Finding new authors and new palettes in parallel – what could be better? If you want to join in too you can add your favourite book recommendations as comments here on the blog or on social media. You can also use the hashtag #KCACOUKBookCAL2026 – I can’t wait to see your book blankets grow.
Want to take on this challenge with me? The block I’ll be using is simple yet versatile, making it ideal for customisation. Here’s the pattern for you to try:
The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.
Each square uses approx. 9.2g / 25.2m of Double Knit yarn (Light Worsted)
STITCH GUIDANCE – UK Terminology
Stitches (st): Stitch abbreviations st or sts stand for “stitch” or “stitches”
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Chain (ch): Bring yarn over the hook from back to front and draw it through the slip knot (or previous chain) to form a new loop on the hook.
Chain Space (ch-sp): A chain space is an empty area, gap, or hole in the fabric created by making a specific number of chain stitches and often skipping stitches in the previous row.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Cluster (Cl): 3tr in one st
Post of the stitch: In crochet, the “post of a stitch” is the vertical, stem-like body of a stitch from the row below.
PATTERN NOTES
Gauge: 12tr = 6cm / 2.4inchs. Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical for this project.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Work all stitches in round brackets in single st or sp
PATTERN
Make 2.
PATTERN
The first part of this pattern is worked in rows.
The ch3 at the beginning of a row or round counts as the first tr.
Row 1: With YARN A; Ch19, Cl in the 5th ch from hook [miss 2ch, Cl in next st] 3 times, miss 2ch, Cl in next st, miss 1ch, 1tr in the last st, turn. 17sts
Row 2: Ch3, 1tr in the top of the same st, [miss Cl from previous row, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row] 4 times, miss Cl, 2tr in the last st, turn. 16sts
Row 3: Ch3, miss 2sts, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row, [miss next Cl, Cl in between the next two Cl of the previous row] 4 times, miss 1 st, 1tr in the top of the last st, turn. 17sts
Fasten off YARN A, attach YARN B to the top of the last st worked;
Row 4: Repeat row 2
Row 5: Repeat row 3
Row 6: Repeat row 2.
Fasten off YARN B, attach YARN C to the top of the last st worked;
Row 7: Repeat row 3
Row 8: Repeat row 2
Row 9: Repeat row 3.
Fasten off YARN C and weave in all ends.
The following part of this pattern is worked in the round (rnd).
Border:
Turn your square upside down. Attach Yarn D to the post of the stitch at the right-hand corner, ready to work along the bottom of Row 1 from right to left.
Ch 3, 2tr in the same sp, ch 3, 3tr in the same sp (first corner made).
[Miss next Cl, Cl in next ch-2 sp] across 4 times.(3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the stitch at the right-hand corner. Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the row ends.
Work Cl at the top of the stitch of Row 2, around the post of the stitches of Rows 4 and 6, then at the top of the stitch of Row 7.(3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the stitch of Row 9.
Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the top of Row 9 from right to left.[Miss Cl, Cl between sts of Row 9] 4 times, miss Cl, then work (3tr, ch 3, 3tr) around the post of the remaining stitch of Row 9.
Turn your work anticlockwise to work along the row ends. Work Cl at the top of the stitch of Row 7, around the post of the stitches of Rows 6 and 4, then at the top of the stitch of Row 2. Sl st to the top of the first ch-3 to join. 72sts
This is going to be such a fun and meaningful project, and I can’t wait to see how it evolves. Whether you’re a reader, a crocheter, or both, I’d love for you to join me. Let’s crochet our love of books into something beautiful while using up those long-neglected yarns in our stashes!
Let me know in the comments if you’re planning to make a book afghan this year- or if you’ve made one before. Share your tips, tricks, or favourite books! 📚
Happy crocheting and reading, until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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I’m so excited to share my latest free pattern, created in collaboration with Utopia Crafts, that’s perfect for those crisp mornings, cosy evenings, and everything in between — the Cedar Hollow Shawl.
Pin it for Later:
There’s something incredibly peaceful about a project that flows under your hook. The Cedar Hollow Shawl is just that – designed with simplicity and versatility in mind. It’s ideal if you want:
✨ A cosy wrap to wear over jeans and a tee ✨ A shawl to snuggle into with a cuppa ✨ A slow-stitch project that feels meditative and easy on the soul
The pattern has been thoughtfully designed so that you can enjoy the process, not just the finished piece – perfect for relaxing evenings with your favourite playlist or podcast.
For this project, I used Utopia Crafts Perfect Aran Ombre crafted from 100% acrylic and which comes as an extra-large 300g ball offering approximately 600 metres (656 yards). What’s nice about this yarn is that it’s certified to the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, which means that this yarn has been independently tested to ensure it’s free from harmful substances. It’s also 100% vegan – completely free from animal-derived materials, making it a great choice for eco-conscious crafters.
I used a whole ball of the Perfect Aran Ombre with a 6mm (US size H/8) hook and it makes a really reasonably large and cosy triangular shawl. The only other thing that you might want to consider using is some stitch markers to help mark the start and finish of each row.
As the yarn is an Aran weight yarn, this pattern works up super quickly and with only simple stitches its perfect for beginners, while more seasoned crocheters can appreciate the opportunity to relax with a project that doesn’t require intense concentration.
There are loads of beautiful shades of Perfect Aran Ombre so you could lots of different variations of this shawl – I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Make it in a neutral for everyday wear, or choose pops of colour for a bold statement. I finished off my shawl with some big chunky tassels but if tassels aren’t your thing it also looks great without.
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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