New Pattern Release | Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, From the Stash, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Sale / Special Offer, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m so excited to share my latest pattern with you – the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth! If you love practical yet adorable crochet projects, then this one is for you. Perfect for bath time, baby gifts, or simply to bring a little extra cuteness to your daily routine, this wash cloth is sure to be a favourite.

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Pinterest collage of the Sleepy Bear crochet wash cloth by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Who doesn’t love a cuddly bear? Inspired by the cosy vibes of bedtime and my love for creating things that make people smile, the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth came to life. I wanted to design something functional yet charming, and a bear-themed wash cloth felt like the perfect fit.

The bear’s sweet, sleepy face is sure to bring a bit of joy to your bathroom or nursery. Whether you are making it for yourself, as a gift for new parents, or even for kids who could use a fun way to make bath time less of a chore, this wash cloth ticks all the boxes.

Multi-functional crochet sleepy bear wash cloths that allow you to wash, entertain and play with your baby.

The yarn I used for this wash cloth was Anchor Baby Pure Cotton Yarn (50g, length: 165m) which is a 100% unmercerised DK (light worsted) yarn which I combined with a with a 3.5mm hook (US size E). Anchor Baby Pure Cotton Yarn is available in 24 colours which range from a soft muted powdered colours or your more traditional pastel shades. Importantly it’s hypoallergenic and saliva resistant (love this) to be entirely safe for babies from a newborn upwards

The only other things you will need for this project are; some stitch markers, black embroidery thread and a tapestry needle

❤️ SAVE SLEEPY BEAR WASHCLOTH ON RAVELRY ❤️

A flat-lay image of the Sleepy Bear Washcloth, crocheted in soft cotton yarn, displayed alongside a matching yarn skein in neutral tones, showcasing its texture and charm.

The Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth is made with cotton yarn, which is ideal for durability and gentle cleansing. The finished size is just right for little hands, but it’s versatile enough for adults to enjoy as well. Pair this washcloth with handmade soap or bath salts for a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift. Great for baby showers, birthdays, or just because! And if you’re a fan of crochet wash cloths, you might also enjoy my other patterns, like the Cute Critter Wash Cloths or the Crochet Cloth Trio.

The pattern now available for purchase, in both UK and US terms, from my usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available for FREE on Ravelry from 3pm GMT (10am EST) on 15 January 2025 for 24hrs as part of the Winter Wash Cloth Series Blog Hop by Two Brothers Blankets.

Blog Hop Instructions:

1: Visit Two Brothers Blankets and get the coupon code.

2: Click on the button below to go to the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth on Ravelry.

3: Click “buy it now,” click “use a coupon code,” enter code, click apply and the pattern will be yours for free!

4: If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the wash cloth from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from the Winter Wash Cloth Blog Hop are also available in a limited edition bundle. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

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

Crocheting is such a wonderful way to add a little handmade love to everyday items. I hope you enjoy making the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth as much as I enjoyed designing it. I can’t wait to see your versions of the Sleepy Bear Wash Cloth. 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!

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

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

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10Oct2024

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

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Sale / Special Offer by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

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;

Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice for Wild Rose Crochet Pillow
Knit Picks Dishie for Vibrant Vistas Kitchen Towel Set
Universal Yarn Colorburst for Alpenglow Cardigan
Lion Brand Cover Story Lazy Days Thick and Quick for Bean Stitch Crossbody Bag
Expression Fiber Arts Luster Sport for Chic Twist Top
Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash for Fringe Fever Poncho

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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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.

29Jan2024

New Pattern Release | Cute Critter Wash Cloths

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, From the Stash, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Sale / Special Offer, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Make bath time extra fun for little ones with a range of cute and practical crocheted wash cloths. Each wash cloth features an embroidered face and ears which will allow you to make Bunny, Panda and Puppy talk and play about as hand puppets as you wash your child.

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Pinterest collage of three cute animal wash cloths by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Multi-functional cloths that allow you to wash, entertain and play with your baby in three charming designs. With adorable faces and ears, these wash gloves are sure to be a hit with toddlers and children.

The yarn I used for these mitts was Scheepjes Soft Fun which is a marvellous all-rounder yarn made from a super soft 60% cotton and 40% acrylic blend in DK (light worsted) weight.

Multi-functional crochet cloths that allow you to wash, entertain and play with your baby in three charming designs.

As the name implies it’s a lovely soft yarn which is allergen-free making it a great choice for crochet baby projects. Available in a wide range of colours from the lightest pastels to the deepest berry shades, it’s a yarn I’ve used for various different projects in the past.

❤️ SAVE CUTE CRITTER WASHCLOTHS ON RAVELRY ❤️

Made from cotton yarn these eco friendly baby bath mitts are great for creating a lather while washing toddlers and children in the bath or shower as they’re gentle on baby’s skin and can be used on the face and body. I’d suggest that these patterns are perfect for crocheters looking to make some cute functional projects that make great gifts.

Eco friendly crochet baby bath mitts which are great for washing children

The pattern now available for purchase, in both UK and US terms, from my usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available for FREE on Ravelry from 12pm GMT (8am EST) on 30 January 2024 for 24hrs as part of the Winter Wash Cloth Series Blog Hop by Two Brothers Blankets.

Blog Hop Instructions:

1: Visit Two Brothers Blankets and get the coupon code.

Button image to go to main round up post for the Winter Washcloth Series

2: Click on the button below to go to the Critter Cloths on Ravelry.

3: Click “buy it now,” click “use a coupon code,” enter code, click apply and the pattern will be yours for free!

4: If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the cowl from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

Button image to get free pattern PDF from Ravelry

All the patterns from the Winter Wash Cloth Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

Button image to buy all the patterns from the Winter Wash Cloth

It includes all 31 designs featured in the blog hop in one bundle that you can download to your favourite device. Great for if you’ve accidentally missed a day – you’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience. Bundle costs £12.20 ($15.50) during the event and will go up to £19.67 ($25.00) after the event so buy now to save!

Bunny, Panda and Puppy; three cute animal wash cloths by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

These sweet bath mitts allow you to wash, entertain and play with your baby – what better way to entice a reluctant toddler into the bath than by making bath time loads of fun!

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Critter Wash Cloths. 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!

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

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

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3Oct2023

Win tickets for The Knitting & Stitching Show Harrogate

Posted in Competitions, Crochet, Outings, Sale / Special Offer, Yarn Show by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

EDITED: Giveaway now closed, congratulations to; Natalie C, Claire B, Kate R, @poppingcandycrochet and @redditch_rose

How would you like a giveaway to win some FREE tickets to the The Knitting and Stitching Show in Harrogate? If the answers a big woolly ‘yes please’ – then keep on reading…

The Knitting & Stitching Show is back in Harrogate this year from 16 – 19 November held at the Harrogate Convention Centre.

Close up of a wall of yarn skeins hanging up in lots of lovely bright assorted colours

The spectacular event is a dream day out for crafters and makers, with creative inspiration at every turn. Perfectly timed for Christmas craft shopping, The Knitting & Stitching Show Harrogate features hundreds of retailers selling fabric and patterns, yarn and thread, sewing machines and equipment, accessories, crafts kits and gifts, from well-known global brands to small artisan companies.

In The Yarn Village, hand-picked, small-scale specialist retailers will be offering a selection of unique, high quality yarn and accessories, not found on the high street (you had me at Yarn Village! 😍).

Image of a couple standing behind a stall; there are colourful skeins of yarn hanging on the walls behind them. — © Knitting and Stitching Show 2023

Whether you’re a knitter, quilter, embroiderer or needle felter, The Knitting & Stitching Show promises inspiration and ideas for every style and stage of stitcher. The show’s Learning Curve programme (ticketed) offers hundreds of hands-on workshops for enthusiasts looking to sharpen their stitch skills.

Close up of some rainbow coloured crochet swatches alongside a crochet hook.

Seasonal makes include needle felt reindeer and mice, winter-themed Dorset buttons, overlocker gift bags, beaded decorations, and knitted and stitched baubles. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an expert, top tutors will be sharing their knowledge, offering classes in every textile craft imaginable.

A group of people shown around a table working on some crochet projects together — © Knitting and Stitching Show 2023

The Knitting & Stitching Show is a showcase for new work by leading textile artists and groups, and this year’s Textile Galleries are sure to delight visitors, with exhibitions by Art Textiles: Made in Britain (Illuminate), Jan Beaney and Jean Littlejohn (Rhythms & Reflections), Ailish Henderson (Maker: Mended), Mandy Pattullo (Well Worn Work), Batool Showghi (Talking Threads), The Quilters’ Guild Collection (A Diverse Patchwork), Sabine Kaner (Hand Stitched Stories), Susie Chaikin, Susan Chapman and Sue Dove (Head, Heart, Knees and Hands), the winner and shortlisted entries for The Fine Art Textiles Award 2023, and winning entries from The Festival of Quilts 20^th Anniversary Quilt Competition.

A group of people do a selfie in front of the textile gallery at the Knitting and Stitching Show — © Knitting and Stitching Show 2023

At the show’s Creative Living Theatre, well-known knit and stitch personalities will be hosting free daily demonstrations, with Christmas needle felting, hand-stitched English paper piecing, Bargello basics, and upcycling waste clothing just some of the sessions on offer. Names include Angela Daymond, Wendy Dolan, Mark Francis, Debbie Harris, Jen Hogg, Moni Omotoso, Nerrisa Pratt and Steffi Stern, and there will even be a catwalk or two.

I’ve previously enjoyed my visit to the Knit and Stitching Shows (though not yet to Harrogate). You can read about those experiences you can read about them here and here.

Image of a couple of people standing in front of a stall; a lady behind the shawl is showing them a colourful quilt that is hanging up behind her. — © Knitting and Stitching Show 2023

Hot and cold refreshments are available throughout the venue; you can grab a bite to eat at one of the venue’s food or coffee outlets, have a picnic in one of the seating areas, enjoy a glass of fizz at the Prosecco Bar, or enjoy one of Harrogate’s many excellent cafés, bars or restaurants, including the famous Betty’s Café Tea Rooms.

So on with the bit you’ve been waiting for! The giveaway details! I’ve got FIVE pairs of tickets to giveaway hurray!!! I’m giving away THREE pairs away here on the blog and TWO pairs away on Instagram.

GIVEAWAY

All you need to do to enter the giveaway is either leave a comment on the bottom of this blog post about why you’d like to go to the show or do the same over on my Instagram post.

The competition closes on Wednesday 11th October at 5pm (GMT). Winners will be contacted via the email supplied from their comment or by DM on social media.

Tickets are valid after 10am on Thursday 16th, Friday 17^th, Saturday 18^th or Sunday 19^th November 2023. This year the organisers are not issuing paper tickets, winners will be emailed a link to register online with a unique code for one pair of tickets. Winners will then need to register online, enter their codes and they will receive e-tickets by email. When entering this competition you must be happy to provide me with a your email address for this purpose, your email address will not be used in any other way.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT

Standard adult advance tickets for The Knitting & Stitching Show, Harrogate are £17.50 (concessions £16.00, children under 18 £8.50). Full ticket information is available at The Knitting & Stitching Show website. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

But if you want your ticket RIGHT NOW I’ve also got a special discount for you! Just quote: CROCHETON23 to get £3 off advance adult tickets (and there’s £3.50 off advance concessions!). Please note that the discount ends at 23.59pm (GMT) on Wednesday 15th November 2023. Booking free applies.

I’d like to say a big thank you again to the shows organisers for offering this special deal to my lovely KCACO.UK readers!

Good Luck everyone!

Until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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19Sep2023

New Pattern Release | Cat Bells Men’s Cowl

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, From the Stash, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Sale / Special Offer, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Finding men’s crochet patterns is not as easy as finding crochet designs for women or children. Dads, granddads, husbands, sons and friends – there’s potentially a lot of folks out there that would love something you specifically crocheted for them. That’s where my new design, the Cat Bells Cowl, comes in…

Close up of the head and neck of a man who is standing next to a old stone building alongside trees and a country path. They are wearing the royal blue crocheted Cat Bells textured cowl around their neck.

I actually designed this cowl for my husband; he’s a keen hiker and one of his most favourite places in the world is The Lake District in Cumbria. It’s a place we go as a family at least once a year, and a place he frequents, whenever he gets the opportunity, to go hiking or cycling.

The name of the ‘Cat Bells’ Cowl is actually taken from one of the most popular fells in the area by the same name. Cat Bells is a short, sharp, steep climb richly rewarded by spectacular views that my husband has completed a couple of times. I wanted to create something sharp, steep and with texture to compliment the place that he loves.

Close up of the head and neck of a man who is standing in the countryside on a sunny day. They are wearing the royal blue crocheted Cat Bells textured cowl around their neck.

Snood, buff, neck-warmer or cowl (the descriptions are pretty interchangeable) are great for men (and women) as they keep the neck and ears warm without the gappiness of a scarf! Designed to keep you cosy and warm cowls can add a stylish, yet minimalist, finish to your winter look.

Although I designed the cowl for a man, the pattern is fairly unisex so you could use different colours to crochet cowls for all your family members!

Image of a hand holding a skein of handyed bluey-teal solid yarn by Rosie's Moments.

The yarn I used for this cowl was from my stash; and was actually a gift from my lovely mum for Christmas 2022. It’s a gorgeous deep teal-to-blues blended yarn called Royal Robe and it was hand-dyed by Rosie’s Moments. I only had one skein so I thought a lovely lightweight cowl would be the perfect way to go.

I would recommend a semi-solid colourway for this design so that you can see the stitch definition. Variegated yarns are wonderful; but they often don’t work well with textured patterns as the colours can hide the effect of the stitches.

Close up of a half ball of handdyed yarn, a crochet hook and a textured work in progress piece of crochet.

The yarn blend I used was sock weight (4ply) 75% Superwashed Merino, 25% nylon; the natural properties of merino will mean that skin should remain cool and dry, and heat will be diverted into the upper and lower body during wear.

The cowl is the perfect accessory to pull up to protect the face from the winter chill, and simple enough to wear around the neck for warmth and wind protection. Ideal for cycling, hiking or any outdoor sport (or just to compliment your winter wardrobe).

I’m in love with the texture on this cowl, in fact I’ve kind of envisioned three ‘kindred cowls’ working with similar textures and stitches for three different looks – I’m pretty much finished with the second cowl so watch this space!

Close up of the slanted textured Cat Bells cowl held up to the camera with a background of an old stone building.

❤️ SAVE CATBELLS COWL ON RAVELRY ❤️

I designed the cowl specifically as a single 4ply (fingering weight) 100g skein project which I combined with a with a 3.25mm hook. It’s important to note though that not all single 100g skeins are the same length. For this cowl you need a skein that is 425m or more – anything smaller and you might not have enough yarn to finish the project (and that would just be annoying!).

The Cat Bells Cowl pattern can easily be adjusted, to make it smaller or larger, (with more yarn) and the pattern will work in other yarn weights – I can’t wait to see what variations you come up with!

Close up of the slanted textured Cat Bells cowl on the neck of a man standing next to Lake Windermere

This pattern is perfect for adventurous crocheter that loves a mindful pattern with gorgeous texture. It’s a fairly easy pattern to master, once you get the hang of the stitch repeats and is a great project to take out and about with it only being a single skein of yarn.

The pattern now available for purchase, in both UK and US terms, from my usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available for FREE from 12pm GMT (8am EST) on 20 September 2023 for 24hrs as part of the Just for Men Blog Hop by Two Brothers Blankets and Sunflower Cottage Crochet.

Blog Hop Instructions:

1: Visit Sunflower Cottage Crochet and get the coupon code.

2: Click on the button below to go to the Cat Bells Cowl on Ravelry.

3: Click “buy it now,” click “use a coupon code,” enter code, click apply and the pattern will be yours for free!

4: If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the cowl from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from Just for Men Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous collection of menswear accessories like hats, pillows, cowls, scarfs and more. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

Button image to buy all the patterns from the Just for Him Event

It includes all 21 designs featured in the blog hop in one bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience. This pattern bundle of crochet men’s accessories won’t last for long. It will only be available until Friday, 22 September 2023.

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Collage of the crocheted Cat Bells Unisex Cowl for Pinterest

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Cat Bells Cowl. 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!

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

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20Jul2023

New Crochet Pattern Release | Festival Fade Shawl

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, From the Stash, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Sale / Special Offer, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m really excited to share with you a brand new pattern release today, this design has a bit of a history about it, so bear with me as I introduce to you the Festival Fade Shawl.

Image of the colourful asymmetric crochet Festival Fade Shawl made from Hook and Cwtch hand dyed yarn.

The Festival Fade shawl is a unique asymmetric triangular shawl which means that each side of the ‘triangle’ is a different length giving the finished piece a unique look.

Asymmetrical shawls seem to be increasing popular and I wanted to have a go at creating an unusual eye-catching shape.

Image of the crocheted Festival Fade shawl laid out on a wooden floor.

The shawl came into creation partly due to a conversation I had with the lovely Jess from Hook and Cwtch who I happened to be sitting next to when attending a Crochet Sanctuary weekend in April.

There had been chat, amongst our crochet friends, about attending the Carry on Crafting Festival in July. I hadn’t agreed that I was going, but by the end of the weekend I’d not only checked the dates with my husband for childcare, I’d been offered a lift to get there, and on the Monday I’d booked an Airbnb room and bought my ticket! Sometimes these things happen fast!

What also happened fast was the conversation that continued with Jess…As we both got over excited about going to the Festival (as she’d already booked) we started talking about crochet projects. This then developed into an idea of doing a collaboration between myself, Jess and Amanda from Mrs G Makes (who was also at the Sanctuary that weekend, and who had already booked the Festival).

Image of the colourful asymmetric crochet Festival Fade Shawl wrapped around the neck of a white mannikin against a back drop of ivy.

We wondered about creating an exclusive Carry on Crafting Kit for all the yarny friends we knew that were going to the festival so we could all work on the same project whilst we were there. The kit would include beautiful hand-dyed yarn by Jess, a brand new pattern designed by me and some wonderful goodies from Amanda – and yes I know I’m so lucky to have these wonderful creatives in my life!

We put forward the suggestion to our friends and a resounding YES, DO IT, came back so we started planning and the idea for the pattern and it’s kit was born.

In my last post about my visit to Carry on Crafting I did mention the kit and share a few photos but to recap Jess had outdone herself with her gorgeous colourways and Amanda created an exclusive tote bag, a caravan themed yarn cosy (which perfectly holds the 100g / 800m cake of yarn you are working with), and ultra cute caravan stitch marker.

Hookers on Tour Festival Fade collab kit; a tote bag, a yarn cosy, to create a crochet shawl in 100g skein of varigated blues and greens and five 20g sparkle minis ranging from blues to pinks.

Jess’s stunning colour palette was made up of 100g (400m) of Retro Camper which was such a pretty mix of pastel pinks and peaches. The 4ply (fingering weight) yarn was a blend of 85% Superwash Extrafine Merino (19.5 micro) and 15% Nylon Yarn.

Then there were five gorgeous sparkly minis (Cadillac Pink, Perfect Pin Up, Vintage Tea Party, Mellow Mint and Cute Camper) which were a blend of 75% Superwash Extrafine Merino (19.5 micro) 15% Nylon Yarn and 10% Silver Stellina Yarn. I so do love a bit of sparkle! To make my shawl I used a 3mm hook (closest US size D/3).

Close up of the Festival Fade hand dyed yarn; 6 different colours are shown on a desk top along side a crochet hook and a Dear Ewe mug with a yarn ball pattern on it.

I wanted to create a pretty yet easy shaped shawl where the the yarn would do the talking and Jess had mentioned, as we were chatting, that she liked an asymmetric shape. Added to that triangle I included a wee bit of texture with a mini puff stitch, because I think it’s nice to have a bit of something to run your fingers over.

I used only three other simple stitches which makes it a perfect shawl for beginners once you get used to the pattern repeats. It’s also easy enough to make bigger if you want to by just using the same increase to enlarge.

❤️ SAVE FESTIVAL FADE SHAWL ON RAVELRY ❤️

Image of the asymmetric crochet Festival Fade Shawl, in a different colourway, wrapped around the neck of a white mannikin against a back drop of a woodland.

We had a blast at Carry on Crafting , and it was so wonderful to work on the same project all at the same time – I finished my second version in the new colour way Jess made for me. It had the same mini’s but a different 100g / 800m base and I love how it turned out with the varigated blues and cream to begin with!

And I thought I’d share a photo of one my mum made, she used 2 x 100g of solid colours (so no minis) and she chose not to add the fade but when the textured portion of the pattern started she colour blocked her shades instead. I wouldn’t have necessarily considered using the colours in this way but I love how hers turned out, and I think it’s nice to see other options that different people have used.

Image of the asymmetric crochet Festival Fade Shawl colour blocked in purple and grey wrapped around the neck of a white mannikin against a back drop of a woodland.

The Festival Fade crochet shawl in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms.

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If you were looking to purchase the same yarn as I used Jess has the recipe for the original colours (not my blue version) and is taking pre-orders that would be available at the end of August. Pre-orders open from tomorrow – just drop her a message over at her Etsy shop.

If you loved the yarn cosy or the caravan stitch marker then Mrs G has similar available – take a look at what she has in her Etsy shop.

I can’t wait to see your versions of your Festival Fade Shawls. 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!

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

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14Mar2023

New Pattern Release | Koito Crocodile Cowl with Yarn Discount

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, From the Stash, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Sale / Special Offer, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m bringing the drama today – but in the right way, only to your wardrobe! Allow me to introduce the new Koito Crocodile Cowl!

Image of the crocheted, orange, white and grey, Koito Crocodile Cowl on a white mannikin against a blue background.

This perennially chic and effortlessly sophisticated cowl is crying out to be combined with that extra special skein you’ve been saving.

This fabulously dramatic cowl, with it’s showy stitches, was something I’d had in mind ever since I first saw, and then subsequently purchased, some hand dyed yarn called ‘Koi Pond – Showa’ from The Yarn Whisperer.

Work in progress photo of the crocheted, orange, white and grey, Koito Crocodile Cowl on a white wood background. There is a crochet hook, a wooden frog ornament, a yarn bowl (with the Showa handdyed yarn in) and a white mug, decorated with buttons, and a hand written yarn tag for the koi pond showa yarn also in the shot.

The yarn is sock weight (4ply) 80% Corriedale wool, 20% nylon with splashes of bright oranges, greys and rich creams. They are the colours you would find on the ‘Showa’ variety of ornamental koi which was Kitey’s inspiration for this particular colourway.

I knew I wanted to create something using a stitch that kind of looked like fish scales which is why I used the crocodile stitch – it’s definitely one of the most unique stitch and texture you can make in crochet. I’m in love with the texture; it’s the type that just makes you want to run your fingers over it!

❤️ SAVE KOITO CROCODILE COWL ON RAVELRY ❤️

Image of the crocheted, orange, white and grey, Koito Crocodile Cowl worn by a young girl with her hand resting on a stone pillar in an outside setting.

This pattern is perfect for intermediate crocheters that want to add the crocodile stitch in their repertoire or for adventurous crocheter wanting to learn something new. And it’s now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited one day special offer to get the pattern for free!

This pattern will be available for FREE from 12pm GMT (8am EST) on 15 March 2023 for 24hrs as part of the Madame Stitches Wraps, Scarves and Cowls: Spring Edition Blog Hop.

Blog Hop Instructions:

1: Visit MadameStitch and get the coupon code.

2: Click on the button below to go to the Koito Crocodile Cowl on Ravelry.

3: Click “buy it now,” click “use a coupon code,” enter code, click apply and the pattern will be yours for free!

4: If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the cowl from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

Button image that says 'Click here for Ravelry'

All the patterns from Madame Stitches Wraps, Scarves and Cowls: Spring Edition Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which I wrote about in a previous blog post. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

Button image to buy the Madame Stitches Wraps, Scarves and Cowls: Spring Edition Blog Hop bundle
.

It includes all 22 designs featured in the blog hop in one bundle that you can download to your favourite device. You’ll then be able to print out individual patterns as your convenience. This pattern bundle of crochet women’s accessories won’t last for long. It will only be available until Sunday, 26 March 2023.

Exclusive Yarn Discount:

I’m delighted to tell you that the most lovely Kitey (aka The Yarn Whisperer), who’s yarn I used for my Koito Crocodile Cowl, is offering 10% discount on his fabulous koi inspired hand-dyed yarn until the end of March 2023. So if you want to make one just like mine you can, isn’t he kind!

Just use coupon code KOITO10 on his website (please note this is a different code from the blog hop code).

Pin for Later:

Collage of the crocheted Koito Crocodile Cowl for Pinterest

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Koito Crocodile Cowl. 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!

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

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25Jan2023

Giveaway | Win tickets for The Stitch Festival

Posted in Competitions, Crochet, Outings, Sale / Special Offer, Yarn Show by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

EDITED: Giveaway now closed, congratulations to; Ann C, Tracey L, Charlie P, @Catherinecrochets and @shearsfiona

How would you like to win some FREE tickets to The Stitch Festival which returns to the Business Design Centre, Islington, London from 23-26 March 2023?

London’s hottest event for contemporary stitchers is back! The annual four-day creative extravaganza is a ‘must go’ for craft fans, with more than 230 hands-on workshops hosted by top tutors, designers and makers.

Dressmaking, upcycling and slow fashion are a major focus for The Stitch Festival, with a dedicated Dressmaking Studio (sponsored by Brother), an overlocker workshop programme, and a Dressmaking Competition that shines a spotlight on the skills and talents of home dressmakers. Open to sewists of all levels, there are categories for Eveningwear, Loungewear, Childrenswear, Knitwear and Crochetwear, Upcycled or Repurposed garments, and new for 2023, Menswear.

Two ladies looking at different fabrics at The Stitch Festival — © The Stitch Festival 2023

Eagle-eyed judges from the worlds of fashion and textiles (past judges have included Esme Young, Lisa Comfort and Nerrisa Pratt) will be looking for excellence in technical skills, stitching and creative flair. With prizes for category winners, a Janome Sewing Machine worth £650 for ‘Best in Competition’, and a Finalists’ Fashion Show on Sunday 26 March, Stitch Festival visitors can expect some exciting highlights. Competition entry submissions must be made by Friday 24 February 2023. For full entry information, visit www.thestitchfestival.co.uk/dressmaking-competition/

Portrait of Katie Jones, Crochet Designer surrounded by colourful crochet samples and yarn — © The Stitch Festival 2023 – Katie Jones (Photo by Rachel Manns)

There are yarny things to look forward to too at the Festival. This year crochet designer Katie Jones has designed The Stitch Festival’s Crochet Lounge where she will be hosting crochet lessons and book signings. There are also so many workshops, just search ‘Crochet’ for a list of all the hooky ones – or try your hand at a new craft. In terms of crochet they include sessions on Mosaic crochet, Tunisian Crochet, Broomstick crochet lace and Freeform crochet to name a few.

Textile artist Jen Cable’s project, Knitted Lives, will be a celebration of contemporary knitting, exploring the lives and stories of everyday knitters, while best-selling author and craft entrepreneur, Isabella Strambio, will be inviting Festival goers to awaken their creativity as she shares her passion for macrame.

Image of Knitted Jen Cable by Sophie Hoare — © The Stitch Festival 2023

Looking for inspiration for new projects? The Festival’s Stitch Stage features free demonstrations, presentations and Q&As with some favourite faces from the knit and stitch world. On Saturday 25 March, the Instagram Makers’ Catwalk features garments made and modelled by talented Insta makers, supported by independent pattern makers and fabric companies.

Last but not least, there’s shopping, with more than 150 specialist retailers under one roof and special Stitch Festival deals to be had, plus all that vibrant Islington has to offer with its stores, restaurants, bars and cafes. Hot and cold refreshments are available throughout the venue, with seating areas for picnics.

Although I can’t make it to this particular show, I’ve enjoyed the visits to these Stitching Shows in the past. If you fancy a read about those experiences you can read about them here and here.

GIVEAWAY

All you need to do to enter the giveaway is either leave a comment on the bottom of this blog post about why you’d like to go to the show or do the same over on my Instagram post.

The competition closes on Wednesday 1st February at 7pm (GMT). Winners will be contacted via the email supplied from their comment or by DM on social media.

Tickets are valid after 10am on Thursday 23rd, Friday 24^th, Saturday 25^th or Sunday 26^th March. The organisers will not issue paper tickets. Winners will be emailed a link to register online with a unique code per pair of tickets and will receive e-tickets by email. When entering this competition you must be therefore happy to provide me with a your email address for this purpose, your email address will not be used in any other way.

However if you want some tickets now scroll down for an exclusive special offer!

SPECIAL DISCOUNT

Advance adult tickets for The Stitch Festival are £16.50 from Thursday to Saturday (concessions £15, children aged 5-18 years £7.50) – transaction fees apply. Full ticket information is available at The Stitch Festival website www.thestitchfestival.co.uk. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Opening hours are 10am-5.30pm on Thursday-Saturday and 10am-3pm on Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

But if you want your ticket RIGHT NOW I’ve also got a special discount for you! Just quote: CROCHETON23 to get £2 off advance adult tickets /and concessions.

Please note that the discount ends at 23.59pm on Wednesday 22 March 2023.

I’d like to say a big thank you again to the shows organisers 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

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7Nov2022

Limited Offer | Holiday Crochet Pattern Bundle 2022

Posted in Crochet, Inspiration, Patterns, Sale / Special Offer by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hello my friends, as Bonfire Night has now passed I think it’s safe to say that our thoughts might be turning towards the festive season. Now, it’s time to crochet all the things for the gift giving season, and make gifts or special creations for yourself or your friends and family. Which is why it is fortuitous that I’m just popping on the blog today to tell you all about the Holiday Crochet Pattern Bundle!

The Holiday Crochet Bundle is an exclusive compilation of 45 patterns from fellow crochet designers that you probably already follow and love. I am so excited for you to see all these patterns, and even more excited for you to make them. Each pattern has been hand selected and curated to create a bundle full of premium quick patterns perfect for this time of the year.

This particular bundle has been sponsored by the lovely folks at We Crochet Official which means not only do you get 45 premium designer patterns from top crochet bloggers and designers, but you also the opportunity to win prizes sponsored by WeCrochet.

Basic info about this Holiday Bundle:

45 premium crochet designs
Limited sale only FIVE days (Nov 7 – Nov 11 3pm GMT / 7am PST)
Automatic entry into giveaways for We Crochet prizes
Plus FREE special bonus premium pattern from me (if you purchase the bundle through my link)
THREE handy crochet themed PDF’s from host Nicki’s Homemade Crafts as extra gifts

The pattern I’ve included in the bundle is my Nordic Twist Gnome which is one of my most popular seasonal patterns. He’s my fun take on those cute Scandinavian Gnomes with hats pulled over a big nose – but there’s a twist! The top of my gnomes hat is completely poseable for you to twist it or put it in all sorts of different shapes. It makes it a rather fun ornament to have on your shelf!

As well as my gnome there’s some really fab designs on offer in this bundle! From home decor to garments, to accessories to amigurumi to SO MUCH MORE, you can get your hands on 45 different patterns at 90% off!

And for anyone that buys the bundle through my link I’m throwing in an EXTRA special bonus. You’ll automatically get my Gino the Gingerbread Baker a fun ornament for your Christmas kitchen! Please note that the extra bonus pattern will be sent after the Holiday Bundle ends.

So not only will you get lots of great discounted patterns, perfect for making and / or gifting, you also get to support some indie crochet designers, like myself, who potentially get a little bit of commission money if you click on and buy the bundle from their link. It’s how many of us are able to continue creating crochet patterns for you to enjoy.

So go and grab your copy, I don’t want you to miss out! Go get my Nordic Twist Gnome (and Gino the Gingerbread Baker) in the Holiday Crochet Pattern Bundle – sale only lasts for FIVE days, after that the bundle won’t exist anymore – so what are you waiting for, go grab your copy at the link below.

GRAB YOUR BUNDLE HERE!

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

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Pin this reminder!

Get 45 fabulous handmade holiday crochet patterns by loads of designers for 90% off through till 11 November 2022!

2Nov2022

Win tickets for The Knitting & Stitching Show Harrogate

Posted in Competitions, Crochet, Outings, Sale / Special Offer, Yarn Show by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

EDITED: Giveaway now closed. Winners have now been chosen, congratulations to Suzanne, Jill C and Julie here on the blog and @sarahreedscrochetadventure and @made_by_skoo on Instagram!

How would you like a giveaway to win some FREE tickets to the The Knitting and Stitching Show in Harrogate? If the answers a big woolly and heartfelt yes please – then keep on reading…

The Knitting & Stitching Show is back in Harrogate this year from 17 – 20 November held at the Harrogate Convention Centre.

Meet up with like-minded crafters, discuss ideas, learn new skills and shop for your annual craft supplies all under one roof – it’s the ultimate day out for craft lovers. If craft supplies are on your Christmas shopping wish list, there are hundreds of specialist companies under one roof, selling haberdashery, fabric and patterns, sewing machines and equipment, thread and yarn, craft kits, accessories and more, with on-stand demonstrations and show offers to enjoy.

Whether you’re a knitter, quilter, embroiderer or needle felter, The Knitting & Stitching Show promises inspiration and ideas for every style and stage of stitcher, from complete beginners to experts. Top tutors will be hosting more than 220 hands-on workshops and demonstrations, with a dedicated dressmaking programme and festive, seasonal makes like knitted Christmas gnomes, felted wreaths, fabric baubles and embroidery Robins.

Spectacular galleries by internationally acclaimed textile artists and groups are a highlight of The Knitting & Stitching Show each year. This year’s show is no exception with exhibitions by Aran Illingworth (Hanging on the thread: Portrayal of Poverty), Archana Pathak (Mapping Transience), Maggie Scott (Five Times More), Marcia Bennett-Male (Moments to Myself), The 62 Group at 60 (Essence), Vivienne Beaumont (Seeds, Flowers and Flowing Hair), James Fox, The Quilters’ Guild Collection and Jess Blaustein, the 2022 winner of The Fine Art Textiles Award, supported by The Open College of the Arts. A gallery of winning quilts from The Festival of Quilts 2022 competition includes the stunning Handi Quilter Best in Competition Award winning quilt, Impresión. Tramonto en Venecia, by Inmaculada Gabaldon.

Sure to put a smile on visitors’ faces is the Hawes Yarnbombers’ Knitted Shrek. The group’s members meet every week at their local pub to knit “without being disturbed by husbands, family, work, household chores or the rest of the world” (their words!). After a great deal of hard work, and with a different theme every year, they have created a collection of delightful characters from the popular movie to raise money for Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Swaledale Mountain Rescue. Hawes Yarnbombers will be encouraging other knitters to give yarnbombing a go to raise money for charity while having fun, and will be on hand with some top tips for first-time yarnbombers.

Although I can’t make it to this particular show, I’ve enjoyed the visits to the Knit and Stitching Shows in the past. If you fancy a read about those experiences you can read about them here and here.

Hot and cold refreshments are available throughout the venue, with seating areas for picnics. Harrogate town centre also offers a wide range of cafés and bars to enjoy, including the famous Betty’s Café Tea Rooms (yum!).

GIVEAWAY

All you need to do to enter the giveaway is either leave a comment on the bottom of this blog post about why you’d like to go to the show or do the same over on my Instagram post.

The competition closes on Monday 7th November at 5pm (GMT). Winners will be contacted via the email supplied from their comment or by DM on social media.

Tickets are valid after 10am on Thursday 17th, Friday 18^th, Saturday 19^th or Sunday 20^th November 2022. This year the organisers are not issuing paper tickets, winners will be emailed a link to register online with a unique code for one pair of tickets. Winners will then need to register online, enter their codes and they will receive e-tickets by email. When entering this competition you must be happy to provide me with a your email address for this purpose, your email address will not be used in any other way.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT

Standard adult advance tickets for The Knitting & Stitching Show, Harrogate are £17.00 (concessions £15.50, children under 18 £8.50) with VIP ticket packages starting at £36.00. Full ticket information is available at The Knitting & Stitching Show website www.theknittingandstitchingshow.com/harrogate/. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

But if you want your ticket RIGHT NOW I’ve also got a special discount for you! Just quote: KEEPCALM22 to get £3 off advance adult tickets (and there’s £3.50 off advance concessions!). Please note that the discount ends at 23.59pm on Wednesday 16th November 2022.

I’d like to say a big thank you again to the shows organisers for offering this special deal to my lovely KCACO.UK readers!

Good Luck everyone!

Until next time; keep calm and crochet on my friends xx