Crochet Now 131 | Bulb Buddies and Spring Floral Wreath

Although it’s been raining (ALOT) here in the UK, with a slight raise in temperature the last couple of days I really am beginning to think that Spring is definitely (finally) on the way! I therefore couldn’t be more excited to share not one but two fresh and floral-filled crochet designs in the latest issue of Crochet Now magazine.

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Two cute crochet characters with expressive faces, one adorned with a yellow flower and the other with a purple flower, set against a light blue background. The setting includes small flower pots and decorative flowers. — © 2026 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 131

🌼 In Bloom Wreath

There’s something so nice about a wreath – it instantly makes a space feel welcoming, and my In Bloom Wreath is designed to do exactly that.

Made up of a variety of seasonal blooms in soft, fresh shades, this project combines different flower styles and textures to create a wonderfully full and layered look. Think delicate blossoms, cheerful pops of colour, leafy accents and sweet little buds all nestled together on a circular base.

A decorative wreath made of crocheted flowers in various colors, including pink, yellow, and purple, displayed against a light blue door. — © 2026 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 131

For my wreath I used King Cole Giza Cotton 4 Ply (fingering weight) yarn made from 100% mercerised Egyptian cotton with a 3mm (Closest US size 3.25mm / D/3). Each 50g ball includes approximately 158 metres of yarn so I had more than enough to make my flowers – in fact there was enough left to make even more bouquets.

Each flower is crocheted separately, making this a lovely pick-up-and-put-down project. It’s perfect for relaxed evening stitching, and you can easily customise the colours to suit your décor – go pastel and subtle, or bright and bold for maximum impact!

The only other things you need for your project are stitch markers, a tapestry needle, a 20cm diameter willow wreath and a glue gun.

❤️ SAVE IN BLOOM WREATH ON RAVELRY ❤️

A close-up view of a decorative wreath featuring colourful crochet flowers, including purple and yellow flowers along with pink roses and green leaves, set against a white background.

🌷 Meet the Bulb Buddies

Say hello to Bulb Buddies – two adorable amigurumi bulbs who are just starting to sprout into bloom! One grows into a sweet tulip, while the other blossoms into a cheerful daffodil.

These little characters are full of personality and would make the cutest spring companions for a shelf, desk, or windowsill. They’re relatively quick to stitch and perfect if you fancy another seasonal project after completing the wreath.

Two crocheted characters with flower tops, one with a yellow flower and the other with a purple flower, set against a teal background with small pots and greenery. — © 2026 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 131

For The Bulb Buddies I used Yarnsmiths Cotton DK (light worsted) yarn, Each 50g ball (106 metres) made from 100% cotton which I used with a 3.75mm (US size F/5). For your project you will also need stitch markers, a tapestry needle, toy stuffing and 4 x 8mm safety eyes.

Designed as a joyful reminder that spring is all about new beginnings, they’re sweet, they’re snuggly, and the perfect pals for playful springtime hugs.

❤️ SAVE THE BULB BUDDIES ON RAVELRY ❤️

Two crocheted plush toys resembling flowers, one with a yellow daffodil design and the other with a purple flower, both sitting among green leaves.

📃Where to Find the Pattern

Issue 131 of Crochet Now is leaning into all the seasonal blooms and happy vibes. Whether you’re stitching for a gift or just whipping up something cheerful for your home, there are many seasonal designs to choose from which are bound to brighten your day.

Crochet Now issue 131 is available in shops now or you can grab a digital version from Craftworld.com.

Cover of 'Crochet Now' magazine featuring a smiling woman wearing a crocheted top, with various crochet projects and text about spring-themed patterns and ideas. — © 2026 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 131

Whether you start with the In Bloom Wreath as a statement piece or dive straight into the The Bulb Buddies for a quick dose of cuteness, I hope these designs bring a little extra Spring sunshine to your crochet time.

I’d love to see your versions of the In Bloom Wreath or The Bulb Buddies – snap a pic and tag me on social if you give it a go! Share your creations on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk so I can admire all your colourful, sparkly results!

Until next time — happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on, my friends! xx

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

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31Dec2025

Crochet Now 128 | Delft Dreams Cowl

Posted in Crochet, Magazine by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hello lovelies, and a very happy new year to you all! 🧶💙

Now that the festive bubble has gently popped and the twinkly lights are packed away again (well mine will be this weekend), January has that lovely feeling of fresh starts and big creative ideas bubbling away in our heads. Whether you’re dreaming up your “2026 hook goals” or simply fancy a cosy project to help brighten these cool, early days of the year I might have a new bit of inspiration for you.

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A woman wearing a blue crochet cowl with white snowflake designs, smiling while sitting against a pink background. She is dressed in a cream-colored ribbed sweater, showcasing a warm and cozy look.

If you’re anything like me, you’re already dreaming up all the things you want to hook this year: cosy blankets for quiet nights in, whimsical gifts for loved ones, and maybe even a few techniques you’ve always wanted to try. And guess what? There’s so much to choose from in the latest issue of Crochet Now magazine to kickstart your 2026 creativity including a new knit look tapestry crochet cowl from me.

Delft Dreams Cowl

I’m thrilled to share that my design for this issue is the Delft Dreams Cowl – a crochet creation with a Nordic nod. 💙🤍 Inspired by icy blue winter skies and creamy snowdrifts, this cowl features a delicate flower-snowflake motif that feels just perfect for the season.

For my cowl I used West Yorkshire Spinners Elements DK Falkland Yarn, which was a new yarn to me. Its a 60% Lyocell (Tencel), 40% Falkland Islands Wool blend, that comes in 50g (112m) balls. The particular blend is known for being breathable, moisture-wicking, hypoallergenic, and gentle on skin, making it a popular eco-friendly alternative to cotton. It’s soft to touch with a slight sheen and it worked well with the waistcoat stitch I used to create the knit look of the cowl.

A smiling person wearing a blue crochet cowl with a snowflake motif against a pink background.

❄️ SAVE DELFT DREAMS COWL ON RAVELRY ❄️

Tapestry crochet is such a fabulous technique – by working with two or more colours at once and carrying them through your stitches, you build a fabric that’s both beautiful and dense, with colourwork that looks almost woven. That lovely tight texture makes it especially snug and warm, perfect for keeping out the winter chill on blustery January walks.

Where to Find the Pattern

Crochet Now issue 128 is available in shops now or you can grab a digital version from Craftworld.com. This issue has 46 cosy patterns which include some great inspiration for the new year.

Cover of Crochet Now magazine issue 128 featuring a smiling woman wearing a cozy cardigan and showcasing various crochet patterns including blankets, amigurumi, and accessories. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 128

Are you stitching anything inspired by the new issue? I’d love to see your versions of the Delft Dreams Cowl – snap a pic and tag me on social if you give it a go! Share your creations on social media and tag me @kcaco.uk so I can admire all your colourful, sparkly results!

Until next time — happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on, my friends! xx

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

16Jun2025

Sassy Sardines Makealong starts today!

Posted in Collaboration, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Promotional graphic for the Sassy Sardines crochet make-along featuring two stylized fish and event details.

Hello, my fabulous friends! 🐟✨

I’m thrilled to announce that today marks the official start of the Sassy Sardines Makealong! 🎉🐠 It’s time to grab your hooks, pick up your sassiest yarn kit, and join me in creating a charming cowl that’s sure to brighten up any day.

All the folks that ordered the exclusive Sassy Sardines MAL kits should have already received the gorgeous Yarn Whisperer yarn (plus fab extras), and the pattern has already been sent out to everyone (from Kitey – so maybe check your junk mail if the pattern doesn’t seem to have appeared).

As usual the exclusive kit colourway that Kitey has come up with for this summer is simply gorgeous, and with it being our first double knit (DK / Light Worsted) collab weight project, it’s an absolute squishy delight to work with.

An arrangement of yarn skeins in shades of grey and turquoise beside three yarn balls stacked on top of each other, with a whimsical illustration of fish at the bottom.

The kit includes a total of 250g (484m) of Superwash 100% Merino DK yarn, with all colours in tonal semi-solids. We have 1 x 115g / 230m skein of Sardine Shimmer in a subtle light grey colour, and 1 x 115g / 230m skein of Seafoam Glow which is a delicate light turquoise hue, reminiscent of serene ocean waters, then finally we have 1 x 20g / 24m skein Deep Sea Spark which is a rich teal-turquoise blend, perfect for adding a splash of ocean-inspired depth to the project.

What’s really fun is that the Seafoam Glow yarn reacts to black light because it contains fluorescent pigments that absorb the UV rays from the black light and re-emit them as visible light, creating a glowing effect. I had so much fun working with this particular palette for this crochet design. The pattern was inspired by a conversation with Kitey at Carry On Crafting last year, and it’s been a real joy to bring it to life!

And Amanda from Mrs G Makes has outdone herself once more, picking the perfect stitch markers to compliment our makealong. I know I always say this, but these truly are my new favourites – a darling little stripy enamel fish and a lovely facetted iridescent bead!

A close-up photo of stitch markers featuring a blue and white striped fish and a silver bead, resting on a sandy surface with rocks in the background. The markers are displayed on a turquoise card that says 'Mrs G Makes' and '@mrsgmakes' in white text.

For the full information about this particular make along (MAL) you can find all the details here (or via the top menu of this blog under the tab ‘CALS AND MALS’). But generally the idea is that the MAL is a relaxed event designed to be made during the winter months.

If you’ve fallen in love with how the kit looks but didn’t get a chance to sign up for the MAL you’re in luck, Kitey can do some dye to order kits. To get one, simply send him a message via The Yarn Whisperer website or a DM on Instagram. Kits are priced at £47 plus postage.

Three skeins of yarn in shades of turquoise and grey alongside smooth stones and a small green plant, arranged on a wooden surface.

As a reminder this MAL will run from today (Monday 16 June) until Sunday 27 July 2025 giving everyone plenty of time to make the pattern. You can of course start the pattern at anytime you wish, this deadline is just there for those that like to have one.

There will be support for the pattern as usual in my Facebook group; the KCACO-UK Crochet Community Group and in Kitey’s Virtual Stitch-n-B*tch zoom sessions. Kitey will also be holding a MAL start ‘hook on’ / intro session on Instagram Live at 10am-ish (GMT) today (16 June 2025).

SHARING WITH THE #SASSYSARDINES COMMUNITY

We hope you’ll share your photos with us on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – we’d love to see what you make! We will be sharing our progress with the hashtags #SassySardinesCowl #kcacouk #yarnwhisperer #mrsgmakes. If you’re blogging, feel free to leave links to your post(s) in the comments here.

You might also want to sign up for the blog (below) and/or join my mailing list to get the latest updates about our fun makealongs as they come up – our 10th collab is coming up this winter, and we’re planning something big!

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A selection of yarn skeins for the Sassy Sardines Summer Makealong, featuring shades of turquoise and light grey, displayed stylishly on a light surface.

We do hope that you enjoy this fun make-along; Kitey, Mrs G and I can’t wait to see your wonderful Sassy Sardine Cowls come to life – it’s sure to ‘reel’ in compliments wherever you go.

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

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7Apr2025

Sassy Sardines MAL Announcement

Posted in Collaboration, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Greetings, fellow yarn enthusiasts! It’s time to get swimming into a new wave of fun and creativity with the Sassy Sardines Summer Makealong 2025! It’s the ninth annual makealong that I’ve had the pleasure of teaming up on with yarn dyer Kitey, aka The Yarn Whisperer and Amanda, aka Mrs G Makes and I’m really looking forward to this years project.

🐟 Pin this project for later:

Pinterest collage 'Excited to announce' new crochet makealong, Sassy Sardines crochet make-along starts 16 June and runs until 27 July 2025.

For this ninth edition, we’ve cooked up something a little quirky and a lot of fun! You can expect a cheerful pattern, gorgeous yarn, and carefully chosen extras – all curated with our usual dose of love and creativity.

You’ll find all the details over on the MAL landing page [here], including a little introductory tale to set the scene for our star of the summer – the wonderfully whimsical Sassy Sardine who’s swimming her way into your stitches!

This time round we are going to be making a cowl. The make-along will run from 16 June to 27 July 2025; you can of course start the pattern at anytime you wish, this deadline is just there for those that like to have one.

Collage of images for the Sassy Sardine crochet makealong including an image of the yarn we will be using in the kits alongside some graphics of sardines.

🐟 About the kits

An exclusive pattern and kit are being created for this extra special MAL. Each kit will include 250g in total of super washed 100% merino DK (light worsted) yarn, this time all the skeins have been dyed in special colours! You will get in each kit;

1x 20g / 24m skein of an exclusive hand-dyed colourway
1x 115g / 230m skein of another exclusive hand-dyed colourway
1 x 115g / 230m skein of a third exclusive hand-dyed colourway
Exclusive @mrsgmakes stitch markers
A digital copy of the pattern

Pre-ordered kits will be available for £47 + postage, and can be made on The Yarn Whisperer website from 10 am on Monday 7 April and if you order in the first 12 hours you can enjoy a 10% Early Bird discount.

SHOP NOW

🐟 Let’s get social!

Make sure you are signed up to the blog (or my newsletter) and / or The Yarn Whisperer newsletter to stay up to date with all make-along news.

I'm joining in with the Sassy Sardines Crochet Make-along, 16 June - 27 July 2024. Find all the details here: www.keepcalmandcrochetonuk.com

Grab the image (on the left) to post on socials to share that you are joining in with the latest MAL – don’t forget to tag @the_yarnwhisperer, @kcaco.uk and @mrsgmakes in your photos!

We will be using hashtags #SassySardinesMAL @kcaco.uk, @the_yarnwhisperer and @mrsgmakes if you want to tag us on socials – we love to see what you make.

We do hope that you will join us for this fun make-along – we can’t wait to see your wonderful new projects come to life!

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

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21Feb2025

Merry Marble Cowl | The MAL Reveal & Pattern Release

Posted in Collaboration, Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Crochet Kit, Independent Design, Pattern Release by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

The time has come, my crochet friends, to reveal the finished design for the Merry Marbles Makealong (MAL)! I’ve been bursting with excitement to share this colourful project, and now it’s finally here. Although the MAL was designed with fun and vibrant holiday vibes in mind, I think the cowl would be perfect for anytime of the year – in fact I’m already planning on making another one!

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Collage for Pinterest showcasing the Merry Marbles make-a-long, featuring images of completed rainbow cowl.

For those that weren’t aware this latest make-along was a collaboration between myself, Kitey, aka The Yarn Whisperer, and Mrs G Makes and was designed to be a perfect pop of colour for your winter wardrobe.

The Merry Marbles Cowl is a cosy yet lightweight accessory that combines playful stitches with a cheerful, rainbow design. It’s simple enough for adventurous beginners but has enough detail to keep seasoned crocheters entertained. Plus, the funnel shaped design ensures maximum warmth, making it as practical as it is pretty.

Reveal of the Merry Marbles make-a-long cowl, featuring sections of sparkly white with eye-catching bold rainbow elements. Lovely funnel shaped cowl perfect to add a pop of colour to any outfit.

As always it’s been an absolute delight to work with Kitey and his gorgeously coloured yarn, I love these collabs we do – it always provides me with an opportunity to work with gorgeous yarn which in turn makes the design process super enjoyable.

The yarn choice for the Merry Marbles was a lovely mix of rainbow shades (red, purple, blue, green, yellow and orange) alongside a large 100g skein of sparkly natural yarn. The photos don’t do that twinkle justice, it’s just lovely and who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle in the festive season (or at anytime)!

Collage featuring hand-dyed yarn inspired by toy marbles, with skeins of undyed sparkly cream, and vibrant mini skeins of rainbow tones.

Kitey perfectly captured some excitingly vivid shades for the rainbow that were a joy to work with, and of course you didn’t have to use the colours as a rainbow you could place them in any order you wish.

Also in the kit, as always, were the cutest crochet accessories from the fabulous Mrs G Makes. Continuing the marbles theme Amanda created the sweetest set of ‘marble’ stitch markers which were such a useful tool when making this cowl.

Close-up of three stitch markers from the Mischievous Magpie make-a-long kit: beautiful bright beads that catches the light with a subtle shimmer like a toy marble, adding a playful touch to each crochet project.

Although the official end date of the MAL has come to an end DO NOT feel any panic or worry that you didn’t keep up or haven’t even started yet. The deadline was there just for those people that like a deadline, for everyone else, enjoy it when you have the time to use the yarn and / or make the shawlette – there is no rush to this crochet makealong! And sometime in the future you will have a beautiful finished object that you can gift for someone special or to enjoy yourself.

And of course it makes us all incredibly happy to see YOUR photos of the various stages of progress you make with your projects on social media – and I hope you will continue to do so as you finish your cowls’ if you haven’t had chance to make it or finish it off yet.

Collage of Merry Marbles crochet cowl works-in-progress and images of the kit yarn, created by participants in the winter make-a-long 2025, showcasing various stages of completion.

❤️ SAVE MERRY MARBLES COWL ON RAVELRY ❤️

Now that the MAL is over, I have listed the pattern in my usual pattern stores for you to make your own version of the Merry Marbles Cowl:

I would suggest 7 different colours and at least 220g would work best; e.g. 100g of cream, 6 x 20g of rainbow or different colours with a 3.5mm (Closest US size E/4) hook. The pattern includes a written version with supporting charts, detailed stitch explanations, and is available in both UK and US terminology.

We do hope that you’ve enjoyed this fun make-along, I know Kitey, Amanda and I have thoroughly enjoyed it!

My lovely mum showcasing the Merry Marbles Cowl where you can clearly see the beautiful rainbow and the unique funnel shape of the cowl.

Sassy Sardines Summer Makealong

Now that the Merry Marbles MAL has wrapped up, don’t despair! Our next Spring / Summer make-a-long 2025 is going to be launching in April 2025! In our 9th collaboration we’ll dive into a splash of colour and creativity with the Sassy Sardines Cowl – a fun and vibrant crochet adventure perfect for brightening up your wardrobe. Packed with a playful design and cheerful vibes, this project is all about celebrating the sunny season with a community of like-minded makers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the craft, grab your hooks and join the fun as we stitch up some serious summer sass!

And I’m just going to say for our 10th collaboration (Winter 2025) we are already planning something truly epic that you won’t want to miss out on!

Previous Makealongs

Collage of Keep Calm and Crochet On UK and Yarn Whisperer Collabs featuring Solstice Garden, Whispers of the Sea, Mellow Mallow, Dragonfly River, Peppermint Pageant and Graceful Gull. Mischievous Magpie and Merry Marbles.

All the patterns for our previous make-alongs (Solstice Garden, Whispers of the Sea, Mellow Mallow, Dragonfly River, Peppermint Pageant, Graceful Gull, Mischievous Magpie and Merry Marbles) are available from my pattern shops if you want to hook something up from your own curated hand dyed yarn stash.

Some of these patterns are now also available as a physical printed pattern from my Etsy shop; this was so, upon request, that I am able to take patterns with me to shows – and I’m adding to the list all the time.

Make sure you are signed up to the blog (or my newsletter) and The Yarn Whisperer’s newsletter to be the first to know when the next new collaboration projects are revealed!

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

26Dec2024

Merry Marbles Makealong starts today!

Posted in Collaboration, Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Merry Marbles Crochet Make-along, 26 December 2024 - 31 January 2025. Find out all the details on www.keepcalmandcrochetonuk.com

Happy MAL day folks!

It’s here! I’m thrilled to announce the start of our 2024 winter makealong, Merry Marbles! This festive crochet adventure promises to be full of colour, joy, and creativity, and I can’t wait for you to join in.

All the folks that ordered the exclusive Merry Marbles MAL kits should have already received the gorgeous Yarn Whisperer yarn (plus fab extras), and the pattern has already been sent out to everyone (from Kitey – so maybe check your junk mail if the pattern doesn’t seem to have appeared).

Close up of the Merry Marbles crochet makealong yarn kit alongside similarly coloured toy marbles.

As usual the exclusive kit colourway that Kitey has come up with for this winter is really different from what we’ve had before. I’m a massive lover of rainbows and the vibrant tones of the mini skeins in the kit were just such a delight!

Each yarn kit contained a 100g (425m) skein of ‘Moonlit Marble’ which is a gorgeously soft hand of undyed yarn with a exciting pop of sparkly stelina running through it. Alongside this we have combined six 20g (85m) skeins; Purple Swirl, Blue Vein, Emerald Gleam, Amber Glow, Tangerine Quartz and Scarlett Shard.

And Amanda from Mrs G Makes has done it again! She has chosen the most ideal stitch markers to accompany our makealong—beautiful beads that look just like colourful marbles, adding the perfect playful touch to every stitch!

Close up of the Mrs G Makes stitch makers made for the Merry Marbles makealong inspired by colourful toy marbles.

I had such fun working with this particular palette for this crochet design. All the colours worked so well together to create a unique design. I hope you’ll agree that the cowl that will add a wonderful pop of colour to any outfit and will make a fun addition to your wardrobe – I have to confess I’ve already been wearing mine!

Close up of the 100g skein of undyed yarn, with sparkly stelina in, alongside a toy glass marble that has a white area of coloured glass running through it.

As a reminder this MAL will run from today (Thursday 26 December 2024) until Friday 31 January 2025 giving everyone plenty of time to make the pattern. You can of course start the pattern at anytime you wish, this deadline is just there for those that like to have one. If you were wanting to join in after the event has started…

There will be support for the pattern as usual in my Facebook group; the KCACO-UK Crochet Community Group and in Kitey’s Virtual Stitch-n-B*tch zoom sessions. This year he’s also holding a MAL start ‘hook on’ Instagram Live party at 10am (GMT) today (26 December 2024).

The yarn kit for the Merry Marbles Makealong is shown in pre-wound balls alongside a wooden yarn bowl and a small ceramic dish with colourful marbles inside.

If you’ve fallen in love with how the kit looks, but hadn’t previously signed up to the MAL, Kitey has a couple of kits left, then he’s offering any future required kits on a pre-order basis. You can either message him via The Yarn Whisperer website or send him a DM on Instagram to request a kit. Kits are priced at £45 + postage and new orders will be posted when he opens his shop in the new year.

SHARING WITH THE #MERRYMARBLEMAL COMMUNITY

We hope you’ll share your photos with us on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – we’d love to see what you make! We will be sharing our progress with the hashtags #merrymarblesmal #kcacouk #yarnwhisperer #mrsgmakes. If you’re blogging, feel free to leave links to your post(s) in the comments here.

You also 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 – I’ll just say that Kitey and I already have a summer and mega winter project in mind for 2025!

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Pinterest collage of images relating to the Merry Marbles crochet make-along including undyed and rainbow skeins of yarn and various coloured marbles.

We do hope that you enjoy this fun make-along; Kitey, Mrs G and I can’t wait to see your wonderful Merry Marble cowls come to life! Let’s make this winter one to remember with the Merry Marbles MAL! Happy crocheting, and let the festivities begin!

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

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12Sep2024

New Crochet Pattern Release | Festival Fusion Cowl

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Designing, Independent Design, Pattern Release, Stitches, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hello, lovelies! I’m beyond excited to share with you my latest crochet pattern release: the Festival Fusion Cowl. This design holds a special place in my heart and I love how it turned out.

Image of the colourful funnel shaped crochet cowl, the Festival Fusion, made from Hook and Cwtch hand dyed yarn by Heather C Gibbs.

I have always had a penchant for crafting crochet cowls, and my favourite type of cowl to wear is a funnel shaped one. However I’ve never designed one of my own until now. This particular style of cowl resonates with me the most, as it offers both warmth and elegance – perfect for chilly days or adding a chic touch to any outfit.

I envisioned crafting a cowl that not only embraced the classic funnel silhouette but also incorporated experimenting with stitch patterns and that would showcase the two beautiful Hook and Cwtch handdyed skeins. I used ‘The Knight Bus’ (rich purples with pops of blue, yellow, orange and white’ and ‘Crookshanks’ (rich orange tones from light to dark) both yarns inspired by a love of Harry Potter. Though you could pick any two colours to reflect your own individual taste, I personally think the bigger the contrast the more effective your cowl could be.

The Festival Fusion crochet cowl by Heather C Gibbs, shown in merging colours of purple and orange shades against a background of green ivy.

The cowl came into creation as another collaboration with the lovely Jess from Hook and Cwtch. After the fun of working together on the Festival Fade Shawl, for last years Carry on Crafting Festival we decided we would do it again.

Alongside Amanda from Mrs G Makes we 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.

As before the kit included beautiful hand-dyed yarn by Jess, a brand new pattern designed by me and some wonderful goodies from Amanda. The yarn that Jess created for this years project was just stunning! Called Neon Lights and Party Nights it was the softest blend of 4ply (fingering weight) 85% Superwash Extrafine Merino (19.5 micro) and 15% Nylon Yarn and we had a 100g / 400m of each colour. Amanda then created an exclusive tote bag, complete with sparkly writing, a matching yarn cosy (which perfectly holds the 100g / 800m cake of yarn you are working with), and ultra cute matching stitch marker.

Table top view of a purple tote bag with 'Festival Fusion' written on it, you can also see a stitch marker and yarn cosy, a pattern and two skeins of variegated hand dyed yarn.

To make my cowl I used a 4.5mm hook (closest US size 7). The pattern is a nice one to do with a fairly simple pattern repeat once you get into the swing of things. Then the only other techniques incorporated are increases placed at strategic points to create the wonderful funnel shape to the cowl. I would say that this pattern is suitable for adventurous beginner crocheters, offering an exciting opportunity to explore new stitches and techniques while creating a stunning accessory.

After Carry on Crafting I finished my second version in the new colour way of Neon Nights and Party Lights. Two absolutely gorgeous variegated yarns with beautiful pops of bright neon’s – I love how this version turned out. The UK the weather is definitely turning more Autumnal at the moment and I feel that both my cowls are going to get a lot of wear!

❤️ SAVE FESTIVAL FUSION COWL ON RAVELRY ❤️

The Festival Fusion crochet cowl 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 for either of my cowls she has similar types of yarn in 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 Fusion cowls – 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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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)

Button image to get free pattern PDF from Ravelry

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.

Pin for Later:

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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24May2023

Finished Object | Juniper Cowl by TL Yarn Crafts

Posted in Blogging, Crochet, From the Stash, Pattern Review by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’ve been awfully busy recently, with some secret squirrel projects, and so I started thinking about things that I COULD share. It occurred to me that I don’t always show any of the finished objects that I’ve made. I think it’s always nice to see what folks have finished isn’t it – I’m always checking people out (in a non creepy way) if I spy a bit of a crocheted item on their person, don’t you?

My Juniper Cowl by TL Yarn Crafts was definitely a case of me seeing someone else wearing it and deciding I needed to make one too! There was a period of time, when several of us, who attended the The Crochet Sanctuary, had a bit of a craze on Juniper Cowls. Everyone was making them, everyone was wearing them, and of course I couldn’t miss out on that.

A hand is holding a crocheted work in progress on a desktop, On the desk there is a wooden yarn bowl with a multicoloured Scheepjes Whirl inside.

There was so much inspiration to be had from all the fabulous ones I’d seen, but I thought I’d try something a little different to see if it would work. So the original pattern by the fabulous designer Toni Lipsey calls for 10 different coloured mini skeins of fingering weight yarn, and don’t get me wrong I’ve seen some fabulous variations using mini skeins, but as I’m trying to do a bit better at using up what I’ve got I wondered if a Scheepjes Whirl might work as a substitute.

Made from a 60% Cotton and 40% Acrylic blend, Scheepjes Whirl’s are a favourite of mine to create accessories as they are simultaneously lightweight, breathable and have a beautiful drape.

Close up of the crocheted Juniper Cowl on a desk top made with a Scheepjes Whirl

They have a generous twist to enable speed while working the yarn and to help prevent splitting, and each colourway also has a unique twisted ply which adds to the distinctiveness of each colourway. I personally LOVE the way the colours blend together in these Whirls, it’s so subtle and the effects are usually gorgeous. The colour I used was a Woolly Whirl called Sugar Sizzle (shade 472), but any type of Whirl or colour I have no doubt would work.

Scheepjes Whirl yarn cakes are a fingering weight yarn (4ply) that are 1000 m / 215g which is more than enough for a shawl or wrap. So even though it was a bit less than the 250g of fingering weight / 4ply that the pattern calls for I thought it would work. The pattern calls for a 4mm (US size G/6) hook but as a Scheepjes Whirl is more suited to a smaller hook size I went with a 3.5mm (US size E/4) to see what would happen.

A close up of the drape of the crocheted Juniper Cowl, by TL YarnCrafts shown on a mannikin against a background of ivy.

I find working on someone else’s pattern very relaxing because all the thinking has been done for me – and that was definitely the case with this project. It was my take out and about project coming with me on car journeys, the playpark and the hairdressers! It’s also a great mindful project to tackle whilst watching TV or listening to a good audio book.

I really enjoyed making this cowl, and I love how it turned out. It’s a great pattern! I have to say it’s a finished item that I’ve used regularly since I’ve worn it. I might just have to make another at some point, though this time I think I’ll defiantly be looking at what hand dyed mini’s I’ve got because that would just be such a delicious project.

The crocheted Juniper Cowl, by TL YarnCrafts made with a Scheepjes Whirl is shown on a mannikin against a background of ivy.

Do you have a favourite finished object that you’ve made recently? I’d love to hear about it – let me know in the comments below.

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

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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