Hi folks! 👋 I’m really excited to share that one of my older designs has had a little refresh and is now back again – the Retro Gamer Cushion!

A Nostalgic Crochet Project

Originally published in Simply Crochet Magazine, this fun design was inspired by the classic arcade game Space Invaders, one of the earliest video games released back in 1978 and widely considered a pioneer of modern gaming. Even though the game was created before I was born, I definitely remember playing it as a child – usually on an old arcade machine somewhere like a caravan park or seaside arcade.

That retro gaming aesthetic has always been fun and colourful, so I wanted to capture that nostalgic feel in crochet form, and I thought corner to corner technique would be ideal. The result is a bright and playful cushion cover featuring a pixel-style alien motif that any gaming fan will instantly recognise. Whether it’s for a gamer’s bedroom, a cosy corner of the sofa, or a quirky handmade gift, it’s a really fun make.

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It’s a great project if you enjoy colourwork and want something a little different from traditional crochet home décor. My version now has a home in my teenage daughter’s room, as she’s a big fan of gaming and loved the retro design. 🎮

🧶 What You’ll Need for the Cushion

• DK weight yarn in grey and green
• Crochet hook – size to suit your yarn (I used a 4 mm hook / US size G/5)
• 1 x 50x50cm (20×20 inch) cushion inner 
• 6 x 2cm buttons 
• a tapestry needle
• Optional: stitch markers

❤️ SAVE RETRO GAMER CUSHION ON RAVELRY ❤️

The Retro Gamer Cushion in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available in this year’s A Geeks & Gamers Crochet Blog Hop hosted by Green Fox Farms Designs. Each day features a limited-time free or discounted pattern designed for real use at game nights, conventions, and everyday fandom life.

🎮 Blog Hop Instructions:

• Go to the main roundup post and scroll to 11 March 2026 entry.

• Scroll down the post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
• Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code to use on Ravelry.
• Download the pattern to your device or library!

🎮 Missed a Day? Get the Bundle

If you don’t want to hop from blog to blog every day or you missed a day and love the patterns, there is also a pattern bundle option where you can grab all of the patterns from the event at a big discount.

🎮 Share your makes

If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the Retro Gamer Cushion from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Retro Gamer Cushion. Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

Subscribe to the blog:

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

Hey there, crochet friends! 🎄

Winter is truly here and I’ve been wrapped up in cosy yarny goodness, dreaming up seasonal makes to bring extra cheer to your festive gifting — and today I’m thrilled to introduce a sweet and snuggly little project: the Snowman Chocolate Orange Cosy! 🍊☃️ You may notice that I use both cosy and cozy throughout this post – that’s simply because people prefer different spellings, and I want everyone to feel at home here.

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This jolly fellow is the perfect way to dress up a chocolate orange (or even an apple!), making an adorable stocking filler, teacher gift, or table decoration this holiday season. I’ve made several of these to give as gifts over the years but I’ve only just got around to writing it up – but just in time for some last minute gift making!

🎁 Why You’ll Love Him

Isn’t he just the cutest? I adore how this snowman strikes a balance between whimsical and wonderfully practical — he’s small, quick to hook up, and instantly adds festive charm wherever he goes. Under the tree, tied to a present, or on a winter dessert table… he’s sure to bring a smile. ☺️

This cosy works up in amigurumi-style crochet which gives him a nice snuggly fit around your chocolate orange (and keeps the sweet treat nice and secure!).

Skill Level: Beginner–Intermediate – if you’re comfortable working in the round and adding a few embellishments like eyes, scarf, and hat, then you’re good to go!

🧶 What You’ll Need

• DK weight yarn in white (for the snowman body)
• A splash of colour yarns (for scarf and hat)
• Crochet hook – size to suit your yarn (I used a 3.5 mm hook / US size E/4)
• Black embroidery thread and 2 x 8mm safety eyes
• A little orange or carrot-coloured yarn for the nose 🍊
• a tapestry needle
• Bonus: A stitch marker makes working in the round a breeze!
• Finished Size: Designed to fit a standard chocolate orange, but you can adjust with thicker yarn or a bigger hook for a more generous cosy.

❤️ SAVE SNOWMAN CHOCOLATE ORANGE COSY ON RAVELRY ❤️

The Snowman Chocolate Orange Cozy in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available in this year’s $2 x 2 = Holiday Magic Blog Hop hosted by Green Fox Farms Designs celebrating all things quick, festive and fun! Each day a new pattern, perfect for last minute gifts, will be offered for just $2 (£1.54), and that pattern will take you under 2 hours to create!

Blog Hop Instructions:

• Go to the main roundup post and scroll to 17 December entry.

• Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
• Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code to use on Ravelry.
• Download the pattern to your device or library!

• If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the Snowman Chocolate Orange Cosy from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Snowman Chocolate Orange Cosy Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

Subscribe to the blog:

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

Hey there, crochet friends! The count down for Christmas is on for us crocheters so I’m absolutely wrapped up with excitement to introduce my newest design – meet Noel Nibbles, the tiniest, most festive mouse in town! With his rosy cheeks, twinkling eyes, and a perfectly perched Santa hat, this charming little ornament is ready to bring a touch of handmade magic to your Christmas tree.

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This tiny Christmas mouse brings heaps of festive charm in a small package. Whether he’s peeking out from the branches of your tree, perched atop a wrapped gift, or adding a dash of cheer to your holiday mantle, this miniature ornament sprinkles handmade magic wherever he goes.

Noel is a lovely quick make, he came together for me over just a couple of cosy evenings, and I think you’ll find he works up surprisingly fast for such a detailed little character. I’d say he sits at an intermediate skill level, simply because you’ll want to be comfortable with amigurumi-style crochet, shaping, and working in the round to get his tiny features just right. And if you’d like to play with size, he’s wonderfully flexible: use a thicker yarn and larger hook to create a slightly bigger, more huggable mouse, or switch to finer yarn and a smaller hook if you want an even tinier version to tuck into your tree.

For Noel Nibbles, I used Scheepjes Catona, which is one of my absolute favourite yarns to work with. It’s a lovely 100% cotton, a 4-ply that comes in 10g, 25g or 50g balls (138 yards / 126 metres), and it gives such beautiful stitch definition on small amigurumi makes. I paired it with a 3 mm hook (the closest US size is D/3), which helped keep him neat, compact, and full of character. His finished size is approximately 7.5 cm [2.9”] high.

The only other things you would need for Noel is;

• 2 x 6 mm black safety eyes
• toy stuffing
• a yarn needle
• stitch markers
• scissors
• small length of twine

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❤️ SAVE NOEL NIBBLES ON RAVELRY ❤️

The Noel Nibbles in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available in this year’s Christmas Ornament Keepsake Blog Hop hosted by Stardust Gold Crochet, celebrating all things festive, fun, and full of crochet cheer!

Blog Hop Instructions:

• Go to the main roundup post and scroll to 16 November entry.

• Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
• Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code to use on Ravelry.
• Download the pattern to your device or library!

• If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase Noel Nibbles from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from Christmas Ornament Keepsake Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous 24 ornament crochet patterns from different designers. Patterns range from vintage baubles and whimsical amigurumi to sparkling snowflakes and tiny keepsake treasures.. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Noel Nibbles Tree Ornament Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

Subscribe to the blog:

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

I’m so excited to re-introduce you with a design that I made 4 years ago now – the Patchwork Braid Pillow! Whether you’re sprucing up a favourite armchair or adding a finishing touch to your sofa, this cushion cover is all about texture, charm, and that handmade feel.

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Originally published in Simply Crochet, Issue 117 as the Cabled Cushion, this design has reclaimed its full title, the Patchwork Braid Pillow, because the name captures both the braided stitchwork and the patchwork-inspired block play that define the piece.

This crocheted cushion cover combines braided stitches and patchwork-style twisted blocks for a look that’s both timeless and on-trend. Swap in soft neutrals for a calm, cosy vibe, or go bold with contrasting brights – either way, you’ll end up with a statement piece that’s uniquely yours.

🧶 Why I Love This Design

• Room to Customize – Want it square or rectangular? Bigger or smaller? All one side or both? The pattern lets you adapt.
• Texture & Depth – The braided crochet stitches bring a sculptural 3D effect, catching light and shadow in a way flat crochet panels just can’t.
• Colour Play – The patchwork-style shifts give you freedom to mix and match — use leftovers, go tonal, or make it bold.
• Function & Form – It’s not just pretty — it’s built to last. The stitches are sturdy and the structure holds up well to use and gives real cushion-y comfort.

I made the Patchwork Braid Pillow with 6 balls of Cygnet Chunky yarn and a 5.5 mm (US size I) hook hook, in Willow (shade 515), which is a sort of greyish-greeny sage type shade that’s just so pretty. Then the only other things you’ll need are a 1 x 50 x 50cm / 20″ x 20″ cushion inner, 6 x 3cm wooden buttons and some stitch markers.

❤️ SAVE PATCHWORK BRAID PILLOW ON RAVELRY ❤️

The crocheted Patchwork Braid Pillow in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available with a 50% discount for 24hrs (1pm to 1pm GMT / 8am to 8am EST) on Wednesday 22 October 2025 as part of the Fireside Comforts Blog Hop.

Blog Hop Instructions:

• Go to the main roundup post and scroll to Wednesday 22 October’s entry.
• Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
• Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code to use on Ravelry.

• Download the pattern to your device or library!
• If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the basket from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from Fireside Comforts Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous collection of cosy autumn accessories like cushions, home decor, shawls, blankets and more. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Patchwork Braid Pillow! Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

Subscribe to the blog:

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

Hey there, crochet friends! I’m so excited to re-introduce the Perfectly Plaid Basket to you. The perfect way to add instant charm and elegance to your living room – with a cosy, colour-worked creation.

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The Perfectly Plaid Basket was originally featured in the October 2021 issue of I Like Crochet magazine as a way to help keep your home feeling snug and stylish.

This classic crochet basket features bold buffalo plaid and sleek leather handles, making it as stylish as it is practical. Whether you’re corralling washcloths on the bathroom counter, stashing yarn by your favourite chair, or filling it with pinecones for a rustic centrepiece, this basket brings cosy lodge vibes to any space.

The design itself is a simple combination of stitches, however I wanted to play around with the traditional buffalo plaid ‘squares’ design. I still wanted it to be recognisable as ‘plaid’ but I wanted the design to by more inspired by than directly copied. So I decided to go with repeating rectangles that I would create by colour changing as I worked.

This basket is made by holding two strands of Rico Design Creative Cotton Aran yarn together, with a 5.5 mm (US size I) hook, creating a sturdy, durable fabric, and is worked in continuous rounds. The only tricky part is managing multiple colours at once, but once you find your rhythm, it all comes together beautifully.

❤️ SAVE PERFECTLY PLAID BASKET ON RAVELRY ❤️

The Perfectly Plaid Basket in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available with a 50% discount for 24hrs (1pm to 1pm GMT / 8am to 8am EST) on Tuesday 7 October 2025 as part of the Fireside Comforts Blog Hop.

Blog Hop Instructions:

• Go to the main roundup post and scroll to Wednesday 7 October’s entry.
• Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
• Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code to use on Ravelry.

• Download the pattern to your device or library!
• If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the basket from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from Fireside Comforts Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous collection of cosy autumn accessories like cushions, home decor, shawls, blankets and more. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Perfectly Plaid Basket! Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects – I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

Subscribe to the blog:

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

Hey there, crochet friends! I’m so excited to re-introduce the Briar Blanket to you. If you’re looking for a cosy project to snuggle up with this season, you’ll definitely want to add this one to your “must-make” list!

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This cosy blanket was originally featured in the August 2022 issue of I Like Crochet magazine, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with how it turned out. It’s so lovely and squishy – perfect for cuddling up on chilly evenings.

The Briar Blanket was born out of my love for nature—specifically, those peaceful woodland walks that are full of interesting textures and shapes. I wanted to capture the feeling of being wrapped up in something that reminds you of nature’s beauty.

The design itself is a simple combination of stitches that creates a series of beautiful repeating patterns. I would suggest this intricate blanket is an intermediate pattern for crocheters looking for a fun challenge where you can enjoy watching the pattern come to life as you work.

I used the delectable Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky for this blanket, which is 100% wool and comes in 100g hanks (137yds / 125m). Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky is a heavy weight yarn that works up quickly; I used for the blanket were Currant 28211 (A, 6 balls), Gosling 28214 (B, 12 balls) and Fedora 28212  (C, 4 balls) with a 6mm (US size J/10) hook (which is amongst the suggested hook sizes).

This chunky blanket, with its large feature tassels, would make a perfect addition to style up your bed – or to keep as a throw on your sofa getting ready for when those nights turn cooler. Make in three muted complementary colours, like I did, or I think it would look stunning in jewel tones for a rich, cosy feel, or even pastels for a soft and serene vibe.

❤️ SAVE BRIAR BLANKET ON RAVELRY ❤️

The Briar Crochet Blanket in now available for purchase from usual pattern platforms – but scroll down to see limited special offer!

This pattern will be available with a 50% discount for 24hrs (1pm to 1pm GMT / 8am to 8am EST) on Wednesday 23 October 2024 as part of the Fireside Comforts Blog Hop.

Blog Hop Instructions:

• Go to the main roundup post and scroll to today’s date.
• Scroll down the designer’s post until you see the download button. The most current featured design will be added to the bottom every morning. This way it stays in chronological order and it’s easy to find the current pattern feature.
• Follow the instructions to get today’s blog post link and / or coupon code to use on Ravelry or Etsy.

• Download the pattern to your device or library!
• If you are reading this after the promotion has passed you can purchase the blanket from any of the links to my patterns stores (links above)

All the patterns from Fireside Comforts Blog Hop are available in a limited edition bundle which is a fabulous collection of cosy autumn accessories like hats, coasters, cowls, blankets and more. Go straight to the bundle via the link below:

I can’t wait to see your versions of the Briar Blanket! Be sure to tag me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry) with your WIPs or finished projects—I love seeing what you all come up with. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below.

You may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

Subscribe to the blog:

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