In issue 163 of Simply Crochet I’m delighted to share my Bright Burst Baskets — a duo of cheerful, sturdy baskets. Let’s talk about crochet storage for a moment. There’s something incredibly satisfying about making something that’s both beautiful and useful — and that’s exactly what these Bright Burst Baskets are all about.

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They’re a great medium sized basket; I’ve got one in the bathroom keeping toiletries together, and a another by my crochet corner holding my current WIPs and a few stray balls of yarn. Honestly, once you start using crochet baskets, you’ll want one in every room – they just make keeping things tidy feel a little bit nicer.

But beyond practicality, there’s the joy of making something lovely that brightens a room. Handmade storage adds that pop of colour, that soft texture you just don’t get with plastic tubs or baskets from the high street. Whether you go for soft pastels or rainbow brights, they’re an easy way to lift a shelf, desk, or bedside table.

And here’s the bonus: they make brilliant gifts. Pop a little candle, hand cream, or some cosy socks inside one of these baskets, and you’ve got yourself a ready-made present that feels both thoughtful and functional. It’s like wrapping a gift in a gift — and who doesn’t love that?

🧺 SAVE BRIGHT BURST BASKETS ON RAVELRY 🧺

What you need for the pattern

I used Cygnet Cotton DK 100% natural cotton [100g / 200m] which is available in a wide palette of bright rainbow and pastel shades, perfect for mixing and matching multiple colours in one project. I opted for seven contrasting colours per basket but you could use as little as two or three. The pattern is very adaptable though you could pair colours creatively think ombre fades, sunburst contrasts, or bold block stripes, I think they could all look fantastic.

This DK cotton delivers sturdy stitch definition and just the right structure for home accessories like baskets, then the only other things you need for Bright Burst Baskets are:

• A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook 
• Stitch Markers 
• Hi-Tack Fabric Stiffener 
• 4 pieces of 19cm x 2cm Wide Flat Leather Strip 
• Awl or sharp needle  

So if you’ve been thinking about trying your hand at crochet storage, this is your sign. Bright, bold, and built to be used, these baskets are a total win.

Where to Find the Pattern

Simply Crochet issue 163 is available in shops now packed with fun patterns to kickstart your summer – it is also available to order online or download as a digital issue.

I’d love to see your versions of Bright Burst Baskets out in the wild! Don’t forget to tag me on social media, @kcaco.uk, or use the hashtag #BrightBurstBaskets so I can see all your beautiful storage solutions.

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

P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!

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

All aboard, crochet crew – I’ve got a brand new pattern to share with you that’s sure to ruffle a few feathers (in the best possible way)! Introducing the dashing Captain Beakerson, a bold and briny seagull sailor who’s set to make waves in your yarn stash!

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Captain Beakerson is a cheeky little seabird with plenty of personality. From his classic white and grey feathers to his striking red scarf and charming sailor’s cap, this nautical gent is ready to navigate his way straight into your heart. Oh, and did I mention the anchor tattoo on his wing? It’s the perfect finishing touch for this high-seas hero!

This pattern is available exclusively in Crochet Now Magazine, Issue 120, and I couldn’t be more excited to finally share him with you. Whether you’re an old salt at amigurumi or just dipping your toes in the water, this project is a fun and rewarding make that’s sure to bring a smile.

🌊 SAVE CAPTAIN BEAKERSON ON RAVELRY 🌊

I made my Captain Beakerson using Ricorumi DK, one of my all-time favorite yarns. This 100% cotton yarn comes in handy 25g balls (57.5m) and is available in a wide range of options—80 solid shades, 10 spray shades, 5 prints, 3 neon colors, plus some sparkly 10g balls in gold and silver lamé. There’s such a fantastic variety to choose from.

I used the Ricorumi shades 2 balls in White 001 then 1 ball of Blue 032, Pearl Grey 004, Saffron 063 & Red 028 with a 3mm hook (closest US size D/3). Then the only other things you need for Captain Beakerson are:

• toy stuffing
• 2 black safety eyes, 8mm
• some stitch markers
• black embroidery thread
• a tapestry needle
• small amount of Plastic Poly Pellets for weighting

Where to Find the Pattern

Crochet Now issue 120 is available in shops now or you can grab a digital version from www.craftworld.com. This issue has 40 inspiring patterns inside including a lovely colourful jumper and several other fun nautical amigurumi projects.

I’d love to see your versions of Captain Beakerson out in the wild! Don’t forget to tag me on social media, @kcaco.uk, or use the hashtag #CaptainBeakerson so I can see all your seafaring seagulls.

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

P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!

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

I’m beyond excited to share that I have not one, not two, but three crochet designs featured in the latest issue of Crochet Now! It’s always a joy to see my patterns in print, but this time it’s extra special, as each design is so different yet equally fun to create. Whether you love amigurumi, a mindful blanket project, or whimsical woodland creatures, this issue has something for you!

Cinderwhiskers the Cat

If you’ve ever wished for a crochet buddy who truly understands your yarn obsession? Meet Cinderwhiskers the Cat, a yarn loving little fellow ready to steal your heart! Styled with their very own tiny ball of yarn and crochet hook, this adorable amigurumi feline is perfect for fellow makers who can’t resist a yarny-themed project. I had so much fun bringing this little cat to life, and I hope Cinderwhiskers brings as much joy to you as they did to me!

🐱 SAVE CINDERWHISKERS THE CAT ON RAVELRY 🐱

I chose West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (Light Worsted) for Cinderwhiskers as I wanted him to have a ‘heritage’ type feel. West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK is a vibrant and durable 100% British wool yarn, known for its soft yet sturdy texture, making it perfect for colourful and long-lasting crochet projects. Colours come in 100g (225m) balls which I used with a 3.5mm hook (closest US size E/4). The only other things you would need for Cinderwhiskers is:

• toy stuffing
• 2 black safety eyes, 6mm
• 1 pink flocked triangular nose, 10mm
• black embroidery thread
• 2 white buttons, 6mm

The Heatherside Blanket

Next up is the Heatherside Blanket, a truly satisfying make that puts a twist on the classic granny square. This is a large, cosy blanket that’s designed with mindfulness in mind—perfect for those moments when you just want to relax with a soothing, repetitive pattern. I absolutely loved working on this one, and I can already picture it draped over a comfy armchair, ready for snuggling up with a good book and a hot drink.

❤️ SAVE THE HEATHERSIDE BLANKET ON RAVELRY ❤️

I chose King Cole Fashion Aran (Worsted Weight) for the blanket which was a new yarn for me, but one I really enjoyed using, I definitely think that I will use it again at some point – especially the lovely tweedy yarns. King Cole Fashion Aran comes in 100g (200m) balls and is a blend of 70% Acrylic 30% Wool which offers warmth, durability, and a lovely drape for stylish and practical crochet projects.

I used a 5.5mm hook (US size I/9) and you need a total of 13 balls of yarn altogether; I chose to use 5 of the main ‘natural’ colour, combined with 10 balls of the other 5 colours, though you could use as little as two colours for the pattern.

Millie & Mollie the Mushroom Twins

Finally, let me introduce Millie & Mollie, two adorable mushroom twins who love to roam the woodlands in search of hidden treasures! These sweet amigurumi fungi are bursting with charm and will make a delightful addition to any crochet collection. Whether they’re sitting on a shelf or accompanying you on woodland adventures, Millie and Mollie are sure to bring a touch of magic wherever they go.

🍄 SAVE MUSHROOM TWINS ON RAVELRY 🍄

For Millie and Mollie, I used Ricorumi DK, one of my all-time favourite yarns, combined with a 3.5mm hook (closest US size E/4). This 100% cotton yarn comes in handy 25g (57.5m) balls and is perfect for amigurumi. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat—there are 80 solid shades to choose from, giving you endless colour possibilities. The only other things you would need for the twins are:

• toy stuffing
• 4 x black safety eyes, 6mm
• 4 x white buttons, 6mm
• blusher (optional)

Where to Find the Patterns

All three of these patterns can be found in issue 119 of Crochet Now, available in shops and online now – you can grab a digital version from www.craftworld.com.

I’d love to hear what you think—will you be making one (or all!) of them? Tag me @KCACOUK on social media so I can see your creations!

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

P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!

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