Category Archives: Magazine

Your Crochet and Knitting | Sugarplum Unicorn

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

Hello, my lovelies! If you’re in the mood for some enchanting crochet fun, then you’re in for a treat with Issue 47 of Your Crochet and Knitting magazine! Let me introduce you to Sugarplum Unicorn – a sweet, sparkly, and oh-so-magical crochet project that’s perfect for bringing a touch of whimsy to your world. Whether you’re crafting for a little one or simply indulging in some feel-good crochet time, this unicorn is sure to sprinkle a bit of fairy dust on your hook.

Sugarplum Unicorn, the crocheted unicorn, is seen rearing up surrounded by sweets and cupcakes. Pattern available in issue 47 of Your Crochet and Knitting Magazine.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Your Crochet & Knitting Issue 47)

Unicorns never go out of style, do they? And Sugarplum is here to prove it! With her vibrant sparkly mane and soft hues, she’s a must-have addition to any crochet collection. Inspired by dreams of sugarplum fairies and whimsical adventures, this unicorn combines sweetness and elegance in one adorable plushie.

The Sugarplum Unicorn pattern is a fantastic choice for beginners, as it uses only simple stitches like double crochet (US single crochet), along with basic increases and decreases. If you’re just starting out or looking for a relaxing amigurumi project, this unicorn might be perfect for you. The instructions are easy to follow, and there’s no need for advanced techniques—just a bit of patience and some basic crochet knowledge. You’ll find that working through this pattern not only helps you practice your skills but also gives you a sense of accomplishment as your little unicorn takes shape.

❤️ SAVE SUGARPLUM UNICORN ON RAVELRY ❤️ ️

Sugarplum Unicorn, a colourful and sparkly crochet amigurumi available in issue 47 of Your Crochet and Knitting Magazine.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Your Crochet & Knitting Issue 47)

Your Crochet and Knitting magazine comes complete with an exclusive 3.75mm crochet hook, 3.75mm knitting needles, and the 6 balls of DK yarn you need to make the Sugarplum Unicorn. Whether you’re planning to gift her as a Christmas present or add her to your seasonal décor, this project is sure to be a hit. Issue 47 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftworld.com.

The front cover of Your Knitting and Crochet magazine issue 47 - on sale from 10 October 2024
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Your Crochet & Knitting Issue 47)

Once you’ve finished your very own Sugarplum Unicorn, I’d love to see how she turned out! Be sure to tag me on Instagram or use the hashtag #KCACOUK on instagram to share your work with fellow crocheters. I love seeing the different variations and personal touches everyone brings to their projects. You can also share on other social media platforms facebook, X (twitter or as a project on Ravelry. 

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 and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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A Decade of Crafting Joy with I Like Crochet with Special Offer

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Sale / Special Offer by

This year I Like Crochet magazine is celebrating their 10th birthday! It made me realise that I’ve been working with I Like Crochet for the past 8 years, and I honestly can’t believe how fast the time has flown! It feels like just yesterday when I first contributed, and now, looking back, I’m amazed at how much we’ve grown together.

Text I Like Crochet, Decade of Crochet, Editors' Top 10 Favourite Patterns alongside colourful photos of 10 different crochet designs.

If you haven’t heard of  I Like Crochet magazine before it’s a US bi-monthly digital magazine which is published by the creators of AllFreeCrochet.com. To celebrate their 10-year milestone, editors Nicola and Caitlin each set out to choose five of their favourite patterns, I can’t even imagine how difficult a job that was out of the hundreds of patterns they’ve published over the years. But of those ten patterns I was delighted, and very honoured, to see they’d chosen one of my designs, and it’s actually one of my favourites too.

Nicola chose the Sandstone Shawl which was a design that was published a couple of years ago for a summer edition of I Like Crochet. It’s a large wrap which utilises King Cole Opium yarn that creates the unique textured and lacy look – and I love, love, LOVED how it turned out!

The crocheted Sandstone Shawl which was featured in the August 2022 edition of I Like Crochet magazine.
© I Like Crochet – August 2022

“I had a vision for this design, and Heather rose to the challenge, exceeding my expectations. In my quest to make summer crochet more prominent and popular, I imagined a Stevie Nicks, boho moment with this shawl in a field of tall grasses. During the photoshoot, I remember not wanting to move on to the next piece because this shawl was so magical to photograph. The texture of the yarn and the combination of stitches truly came together to create this boho dream shawl.” – Nicola, Editor

💕 SAVE THE SANDSTONE SHAWL ON RAVELRY 💕

How lovely were her comments! ❤️ It got me thinking about what my favourite ten patterns were that I’ve designed for I Like Crochet over the years. It was a tricky one but I narrowed it down to:

  • Cherry Blossom Wrap (Apr 2016)
  • Tahoe Scarf and Hat (Feb 2022)
  • Sandstone Shawl (Aug 2022)
  • Evie Pom Hat (Oct 2021)
  • Anchor Cove Shawl (Jun 2021)
  • Delani Diamond C2C scarf (Aug 2023
  • Dale the Woodland Deer (Oct 2019)
  • Chevron Flair Cowl (Aug 2020)
  • Puppy Love Coin Purse (Feb 2022)
  • Dachshund thru’ the snow (Dec 2018)
Collage of the favourite ten designs that I have had published in I Like Crochet Magazine over the years.

It was really interested to see the Editors reflect on their favourite designs, from cardigans to decorative pillows, with each design each telling a unique story. You can read their full blog post on the I Like Crochet website: Celebrating a Decade of Creativity: I Like Crochet’s 10th Birthday.

I’m delighted to say to celebrate I Like Crochet are offering you, my lovely readers, a special discount, you can get a years subscription for just $10 / approx £7.62 for a whole YEAR! As well as the magazine you get access to all back issues (over 700+ patterns) and loads of other great content – it’s such a bargain! You can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad .

Go to I Like Crochet Special Offer
10 Years of I Like Crochet! Collage of fun crochet sayings like everyday is a good day to crochet.

They also have a load of other giveaways happening this month, open to US and Canadian followers, where winners will be announced in early November;

Example giveaway image for #10yearsofILC for the Wild Rose Crochet Pillow by Susan Kennedy.

So all that’s left for me to say is congratulations I Like Crochet on the success of your magazine for the last decade! I look forward to continuing our partnership for the next 10 years and beyond!

If you hook up (or have made) the Sandstone Shawl, I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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Crochet Now | Ghoulie the Ghost Cushion

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

Are you ready for some Halloween fun? I’m thrilled to introduce a boo’tiful project for this spooky season – meet Ghoulie the Ghost Cushion from Issue 112 of Crochet Now – he’s just ‘dying’ to party! Whether you’re gearing up for the biggest Halloween party of the year or just looking to add some festive charm to your home, Ghoulie is here to bring some playful, not-so-spooky vibes to your décor.

A cute, crochet ghost cushion named Ghoulie, with a friendly, smiling face. Ghoulie has a soft white body with black eyes and a stitched mouth. The cushion is adorned with 'Boo' bunting that stretches across its top, featuring orange flags with black writing. The background is a cosy, autumn-themed setting with pumpkins and a few Halloween decorations.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 112)

Ghoulie is no ordinary ghost. With his tall hat and friendly grin, he’s the perfect cushion for cosy Halloween nights in. While others may think Halloween is all about scares, Ghoulie’s approach is more about fun and festivity, he’s here to be the ‘life’ (or afterlife!) of the party. He’s got a mischievous twinkle in his eye, but rest assured, he’s as soft and cuddly as can be!

This year, Ghoulie is pulling out all the stops for the big Halloween bash. He’s decked out in his very own handmade ‘Boo’ bunting – his favourite accessory! The bunting adds just the right touch of Halloween spirit without going over the top, making it perfect for anyone who enjoys a mix of spooky and sweet. Can’t you just picture him at the party, proudly hanging out on the sofa or as the centrepiece of a fun-filled living room?

A table top covered with various skeins of Yarnsmiths Create Super Chunky Yarn in a range of vibrant colours. The yarn is thick and fluffy, creating a soft, textured appearance. The colours include rich shades of orange, deep purple, black, rose pink, and warm mustard yellow. The background is a neutral, light surface that contrasts with the bold hues of the yarn.

For Ghoulie I used some Yarnsmiths Create Super Chunky, which was a new yarn to me. It’s a very squishy super chunky weight yarn that’s made from 100% Acrylic in 100g (80m) balls which helps make Ghoulie ‘hauntingly’ cute and ‘boo-tifully’ soft!

Standing at 70cm /27.5 inches tall the only other things you will need for Ghoulie are;

❤️ SAVE GHOULIE THE GHOST CUSHION ON RAVELRY ❤️

Ghoulie the Ghost crochet halloween cushion featured in the latest issue of Crochet Now magazine (issue 112).
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 112)

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party yourself or just want to bring a bit of the season into your home, Ghoulie makes a delightful addition. He’s more of a “friendly haunt,” making him great for family-friendly celebrations or those who prefer their Halloween with a touch of whimsy.

If you’re eager to get started on Ghoulie, you’ll find the full pattern in Issue 112 of Crochet Now. which is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines

Front cover of Crochet Now magazine featuring a collage of seasonal crochet projects including Ghoulie the Ghost.

If you make up Ghoulie I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 crocheting, and here’s to a spook-tacular Halloween! 🎃👻 xx

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Your Crochet and Knitting | Jade the Witch

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

Hello, my lovelies! Today I’m delighted to introduce the enchanting Jade the Witch, your newest project from Your Crochet & Knitting Magazine Issue 46. This bewitching little character is perfect for adding a touch of magic to your autumn crafting, whether you’re a seasoned crochet enthusiast or a beginner ready to cast your first spell with yarn and hook.

Get ready to add a touch of magic to your crafting this autumn with Jade the Witch, the latest enchanting project from Your Crochet & Knitting Magazine Issue 46.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Your Crochet & Knitting Issue 46)

Jade is no ordinary witch; she’s a friendly and whimsical character who’s more into potion-making and herb-gathering than cackling and casting spells. With her pointed hat, flowing sparkly magenta hair, stripy tights, Jade is ready to take on the autumn season with charm and a dash of witchy flair.

Crafted with a mix of vibrant yarns, Jade is not only a delightful decoration but also a fantastic project to hone your skills. Standing at approximately 33 cm tall, she’s just the right size to sit on your shelf, desk, or as part of your Halloween display.

❤️ SAVE JADE THE WITCH ON RAVELRY ❤️

Jade the Witch, from issue 46 of Your Crochet and Knitting Magazine is show flying against a blue sky background sitting on a little broomstick.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Your Crochet & Knitting Issue 46)

Jade might seem a bit complex with all her different elements, but by breaking it down into manageable steps, I’m sure you’ll be able to bring her to life with each stitch.

Your Crochet and Knitting magazine comes complete with an exclusive 3.5mm crochet hook, 3.5mm knitting needles, and the 6 balls of DK yarn you need to make Jade the Witch. Whether you’re planning to gift her to a Halloween loving friend or add her to your seasonal décor, this project is sure to be a hit. Issue 46 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines

The front cover of Your Knitting and Crochet magazine issue 46 - on sale from 20 August 2024
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Your Crochet & Knitting Issue 46)

I love seeing how your projects turn out! Once you’ve completed Jade, don’t forget to share her with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry. 

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 and 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, thank you for your support.

Simply Crochet Magazine | Granny Square Day 2024

Posted in Afghan Square, Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Yarn by
Granny Square Day 2024, 15th August 2024, an annual crochet event with Simply Crochet magazine.

Hey there, crochet lovers! It’s time to gear up for another year of crochet fun and community spirit! It’s Granny Square Day 2024! Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or just starting out, Granny Square Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate this iconic motif that has brought joy to so many crafters around the world. It’s a virtual festival, mainly hosted on Instagram, where we connect with fellow crocheters from all corners of the globe.

Granny Square Day started back in 2014, and it’s been growing ever since. The idea was simple: fill the Instagram grid with beautiful granny squares, creating a patchwork of inspiration that anyone could be part of. Each square posted on this day becomes part of a larger tapestry, symbolising our shared love for crochet.

Collage of lots of beautiful and varied granny square designs that have been put together for Granny Square Day 2024

As previous years Simply Crochet the latest issue of the magazine (Issue 152) comes with the 40 Fabulous Granny Squares supplement to get your hooks sunk into. Filled with all new granny square patterns there’s loads of inspiration for some new fabulously square projects.

And I’m really excited to say that I’ve designed two brand new granny square for this supplement. This years theme was entertainment, and my brain went to the circus!

The front cover of Simply Crochet 2024 is shown with the supplement 40 Fabulous Granny Squares supplement.
© Simply Crochet 2024 – Issue 152

Of the two squares I designed the first features a friendly clown and the second a ‘big top’ style motif with a stripy big top circle. I think combining both motifs could result in a really fun circus themed cushion or blanket – what would you use them for?

I used Rico Ricorumi for these blocks, with a 3.5mm hook (US E/4) which is a DK (Light Worsted) weight 100% cotton yarn that I had in my stash, but the designs would work equally well in any DK yarn or in fact with other fibres and yarn weights to make bigger or smaller blocks.

Granny squares are more than just a crochet motif; they’re a symbol of creativity, community, and comfort. They’re versatile, beginner-friendly, and can be turned into almost anything—from blankets to bags, clothing to coasters. Plus, they’re the perfect stash-busters, allowing you to use up those leftover bits of yarn in the most beautiful way.

Two granny squares designed for Granny Square Day 2024. The first features a clown and the second a 'big top' style motif with a stripy circle.

Simply Crochet Magazine is on sale from 6th August 2024 and is available to order online or download as a digital issue now. And want to join in with Granny Square Day? It’s super easy! All you have to do is hook, snap and share! All Granny Squares use #grannysquareday2024 and all Granny Square related projects use #grannysquaremakes2024 resulting in the BIGGEST VIRTUAL CROCHET BLANKET IN THE WORLD!

I know they aren’t for everyone but I’m a granny square fan, to me they are nothing to do with ‘grannys’ – they are just a super fun way to show how fun and versatile crochet can be! And there’s something for everyone in the 40 Fabulous Granny Squares supplement from more traditional looking squares to modern contemporary designs.

My Squares:

Collage of the granny square and block patterns created by Heather C Gibbs of Keep Calm and Crochet On UK blog.

Hit the button below for more block fun! Free squares will link directly to my blog or, where relevant, to a PDF of the pattern.

KCACOUK Crochet Square Patterns

If you hook up any of the squares I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! 

I hope you enjoy this day of crafty celebration that brings together our fabulous hooky community!

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

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Your Crochet and Knitting | Freya the Fungi Forager Squirrel

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

Autumn is around the corner, and what better way to welcome the season than with an adorable new project from Your Crochet & Knitting Magazine? This month, we’re excited to introduce Freya the Fungi Forager Squirrel, a delightful character who embodies the spirit of the harvest season.

A crocheted squirrel named Freya stands in a woodland scene, holding a mushroom - pattern available in Your Crochet & Knitting issue 45

Freya is a must-make for those who love a bit of woodland whimsy in their crafting. This project is perfect for crocheters looking to expand their skills with amigurumi. With her sweet dress and a her large spotty mushroom, Freya would make a charming addition to your autumn décor.

Close up of a crocheted mushroom that is being foraged by Freya the Squirrel

Your Crochet and Knitting magazine comes complete with an exclusive 3.75mm crochet hook, 3.75mm knitting needles, and 6 balls of yarn and is packed full of simple and fun projects and seasonal toys to knit and crochet.

❤️ SAVE FREYA THE SQUIRREL ON RAVELRY ❤️

A crocheted squirrel named Freya stands in a woodland scene, holding a mushroom, surrounded by autumn leaves and a basket of fungi. The pattern for Freya is available in Your Crochet & Knitting issue 45.

Whether you’re planning to gift her to a nature-loving friend or add her to your seasonal décor, this project is sure to be a hit. Issue 45 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines

Front cover of issue 45 of Your Crochet and Knitting magazine.

If you make up Freya I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 and 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, thank you for your support.

Crochet Now | Elroy the Elephant Pattern

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

Get ready to meet the beach going Elroy the Elephant in the latest issue of Crochet Now magazine. Elroy is all set for his summer vacation, sporting a little yellow sun hat, stripy rubber ring and bright orange flippers. He’s the perfect companion for little animal lovers and a fun project for your summer crochet.

Elroy the amigurumi elephant crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs available in issue 110 of Crochet Now magazine.

I’ve had this crochet pattern in mind for a while, so it’s truly exciting to finally bring Elroy to life. I used some of my favourite Ricorumi DK yarn, which, if you’re not familiar with it, is a 100% cotton yarn that comes in 25g [57.5m] balls.

I love this yarn for amigurumi as it’s available in 80 solid shades, 10 spray shades, 5 prints, 3 neon shades and there’s also some 10g balls of gold and silver lame – there’s so much to chose from!

A cute crochet amigurumi elephant is standing on a blue background, he's wearing a yellow hat, blue shorts and orange flippers. He also has a red and white striped rubber ring around his tummy.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 110)

The only other things you will need for Elroy are some stitch markers, a tapestry needle, some toy stuffing, 2 x 6mm black safety eyes and a 3.5mm hook (US size E).

❤️ SAVE ELROY THE ELEPHANT ON RAVELRY ❤️

Elroy the crocheted amigurumi elephant - pattern available in issue 110 of Crochet Now magazine.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 110)

Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or just starting out, I think Elroy is an engaging project that allows for customisation and creativity. His charming appearance and summer accessories will make him a delightful addition to any crochet collection.

Issue 110 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines

© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 110)

If you make up Elroy I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 and 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, thank you for your support.

Crochet Now | Peaches the Pet Rabbit Pattern

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

👇Edited: This pattern is now available on it’s own! You can find the links in this new post.

Go to New Post

Are you ready to crochet yourself a new pet? Look no further than the adorable Peaches the Pet Rabbit pattern, featured in Crochet Now issue 108! This charming project is bound to capture your heart and ignite your creativity as you craft your very own sweet companion.

Peaches the amigurumi rabbit crochet pattern by Heather C Gibbs available in issue 108 of Crochet Now magazine.

Peaches the Pet Rabbit is the epitome of crochet cuteness. With her upright ears, powder puff tail, and lovable expression, she’s sure to become a cherished member of your crochet menagerie.

I love making bunnies, in fact I think this might possibly be my 11th incarnation of crocheting a rabbit, they are definitely the animal I have crocheted the most.

I used some of my favourite Scheepjes Stone Washed for Peaches, which, if you’re not familiar with it, is a Sport weight yarn that’s made from 22% Acrylic, 78% Cotton that comes in 50g (130m) balls.

A cute crochet amigurumi peach bunny is sitting on a desk, behind her is a basket of Scheepjes Stone Washed yarn that has been used to create her.

The only other things you will need for Peaches are some stitch markers, a tapestry needle, some toy stuffing, 1 pair x 12mm kawaii safety eyes, 1 x 15mm pink flocked safety nose, some black embroidery thread, two small green buttons and a 3.5mm hook (US size E).

❤️ SAVE THE PEACHES THE PET RABBIT ON RAVELRY ❤️

Close up of Peaches the crocheted amigurumi rabbit - pattern available in issue 108 of Crochet Now magazine.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 108)

With her adorable features and customisable design, Peaches offers endless opportunities for creativity and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or just starting out, Peaches is the perfect project to spark your imagination and brighten your day.

Issue 108 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines

Front cover of Crochet Now magazine Issue 108 - available to buy now!

If you make up Peaches I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 and 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, thank you for your support.

Crochet Now Magazine | Official Moomins Pattern

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

In the enchanting world of crochet, where imagination weaves into reality, there’s a special corner reserved, for folks like me, who cherish nostalgic memories. Enter the beloved Moomins, those delightful characters from Tove Jansson’s iconic stories which I have recently had the pleasure to create in crochet.

Official Moomins Crochet Pattern including Moomin Troll and Snorkmaiden - out now in issue 107 of Crochet Now magazine.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 107)

If you are not familiar with the Moomins they are a family of white roundish trolls with large snouts. They are the central characters in a series of novels, short stories, picture books, and a comic strip by Finnish writer and illustrator Tove Jansson,

The latest issue of Crochet Now magazine is a treasure trove of lovely seasonal patterns and inspiration, but nestled among them are two little guys that I hope will instantly transport you to Moominvalley. I had fun creating the much-loved hippopotamus-like characters; Moomin Troll and the Snork Maiden.

I used DROPS Alpaca for my Moomins as I felt it would be fitting to use a Nordic yarn. DROPS Alpaca is a 5ply / Sport weight yarn that’s made from 100% Alpaca Wool that comes in 50g (167mm) balls. It’s beautifully soft to work with and has a lovely halo on it, which I think, lent a nice ‘cuddle factor’ to the Moomins.

Close up of hands holding a wicker basket in front of an ivy backdrop. In the basket are two balls of Drops Alpaca alongside two crocheted Moomin amigurumi.

The only other things you will need for the Moomins are some stitch markers, a tapestry needle, some toy stuffing, black sewing thread, 4 x 6mm black safety eyes and a 3mm hook (closest US size D/3).

❤️ SAVE THE MOOMINS ON RAVELRY ❤️

Crochet Moomin Troll and Snorkmaiden amigurumi's are shown standing against a light blue background. Patterns available in issue 107 of Crochet Now magazine.

I think that the Moomins have a timeless appeal that can resonate with fans of all ages. They’re not just toys or decorations; they’re companions on imaginary adventures!

Issue 107 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines

Front cover of issue 107 of Crochet Now Magazine from Practical Publishing.
© Practical Publishing 2024 (Crochet Now Issue 107)

If you make up either of the Moomins I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 and 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, thank you for your support.

Simply Crochet Magazine | Zuri the Zebra

Posted in Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by

One of this years trending style is Neon! Have you considered giving it a try to bring an electrified pop to your next amigurumi project?

Giant neon crocheted amigurumi zebra sitting on a white chair, with a hot pink blanket draped on the back, in a colourful child's room setting.
© Our Media Ltd 2024 – Simply Crochet Issue 148

As well as the Bear Pocket organiser (that I talked about here) I also have another pattern in issue 148 of Simply Crochet Magazine. Allow me to introduce Zuri the Zebra, a jumbo colourful amigurumi project.

Neon colours have been making a splash in the world of fashion and design, and now they’re taking the crochet world by storm. With their bold, vivid hues, neon yarns add an instant dose of excitement and energy to any project. And what better way to showcase this trend than with a larger-than-life crochet creation like Zuri the Zebra!

Close up of all the wonderful neon colours included in the mane of Zuri crocheted amigurumi zebra - available in Simply Crochet Magazine issue 148
© Our Media Ltd 2024 – Simply Crochet Issue 148

 Zuri is not your average amigurumi! Standing tall and proud, at 50cm (20 inches) tall when sitting, this neon giant zebra is sure to make a statement in any room. With her striking neon stripes, she exudes a playful charm that’s impossible to resist.

Whether you’re an experienced crocheter looking for a new challenge or a beginner eager to try something bold, Zuri is the perfect project to unleash your creativity.

A collection of Scheepjes yarn is shown on a desk. A hand holds up some highlighter yellow coloured yarn and we can also see green and pink neon yarn alongside light grey and cream.

To create Zuri I used two types of Aran weight yarn for this jumbo project. The main bod colour was made from Scheepjes Truly Scrumptious Aran in Buttercream Icing, which is and 50% Polyester 50% Acrylic blended yarn available in 100g (108m) balls. It was my first time using this yarn and I was curious about it as the polyester part is made from recycled plastic bottles. I have to say I was impressed, it’s still fairly soft and there is over 80 shades to choose from, I’ll certainly be considering it for other projects.

For the bright neon accents I used Scheepjes Chunky Monkey in Hot Pink, Neon Green, Yellow and Smoke (for the hooves). I’ve used Chunky Monkey in lots of projects in the past, it’s a really versatile 100% acrylic yarn Aran weight yarn 100g (116m) balls.

The giant neon crocheted Zuri the Amigurumi Zebra is shown sitting in a grey arm chair. Pattern is available in issue 148 of Simply Crochet magazine.

Then the only other things you will need are a 5.5 (US size H/8), a pair of 24mm black safety eyes, some stitch markers, some toy filler (at least 1kg / 2lbs), pins and a yarn needle to sew all the pieces together. And if you are looking for a large project bag to keep all that I can certainly recommend my Dear Ewe Large Project or Tote bags that hold 8 or more balls of yarn comfortably.

❤️ SAVE ZURI THE ZEBRA ON RAVELRY ❤️

Not only is Zuri a delightful addition to any crochet collection, but she also makes a wonderful gift for friends and loved ones. Imagine the joy on someone’s face when they unwrap their very own giant neon giant – it’s sure to be a gift they’ll treasure for years to come.

Issue 148 of Simply Crochet Magazine is on sale from 16 April 2024 and is available to order online or download as a digital issue now.

Front cover of issue 148 of Simply Crochet Magazine showing the 'Pet Special' supplement and the cover gifts of hooks with cat or enamel topper.
© Our Media Ltd 2024 – Simply Crochet Issue 148

No child’s bedroom is complete without a cuddly buddy, so make this delightfully unique safari animal for a little one you love!

If you make up Zuri the Amigurumi Zebra I hope you’ll share any finished photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally 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 and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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