A Sweet Surprise in Crochet Now Issue 123! 🍭🧁

If you’ve got a sweet tooth for crochet, then you’re in for a real treat with Crochet Now Issue 123 – because it’s positively packed with sugary goodness!

I already knew that my brand-new pattern, the MarshFellows – Coco and Puff, would be hopping into this issue (aren’t they just the squishiest little marshmallow pals?), but imagine my delight when I flicked through the pages and spotted some familiar favourites making a surprise return!

Two crochet plush marshmallow characters, one with a pink exterior and one with a white exterior, both featuring brown tops and smiling faces, surrounded by mini marshmallows on a fluffy white surface with a pink background. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 123

But first let me tell you all about Cocoa and Puff, the Marshfellow Pals – two delightfully squishy, chocolate-dipped marshmallow friends! Made with plush chenille yarn for maximum cuddliness,
these sweet amigurumi treats are the perfect blend of cosy and cute.

For the Marshfellows, I used Yarnsmiths Chenille Chunky, which, as you can probably imagine, is wonderfully soft and snuggly, perfect for these huggable characters. Since they’re quite large, you’ll need a fair amount of stuffing to give them their full, squishy shape. I also recommend using a large stitch marker when working with this fluffy yarn, as the stitches can be tricky to see. To finish them off, you’ll need a pair of 21mm black safety eyes and a bit of black thread for the finer facial details.

🔥 SAVE THE MARSHFELLOWS ON RAVELRY 🔥

✨ The Coffee House Kawaii Toys are back – one of my older designs that’s still as delicious as ever! You’ll find the super cute donut, a smiley coffee cup, and the sweetest little ice cream. These three make such a cheerful trio and are perfect for adding a dash of kawaii charm to your day.

A vibrant display of crocheted kawaii food items, including a smiling pink donut, a cheerful green cup with a pink band, and a playful ice cream cone topped with chocolate and pink scoops, all set against a light blue background. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 123

For these characters, I used Paintbox Cotton DK, a soft and versatile 100% cotton yarn. It’s a DK (double knitting) weight and comes in generous 50g (125m) balls – plenty for amigurumi projects. I used one ball each of Light Caramel (409), Bubblegum Pink (451), Spearmint Green (426), Paper White (401), and the perfectly named Coffee Bean (411) to create all the characters – and I still had some yarn left over!

Although the recommended hook size for this yarn is 4mm, I opted for a 3mm hook. I often go down a couple of sizes when making amigurumi to achieve a tighter stitch, which helps keep the stuffing neatly contained.

🔥 SAVE THE KAWAII COFFEE HOUSE GANG ON RAVELRY 🔥

And if that wasn’t enough to satisfy your crafty cravings, Bella the Bon Bon Mouse also makes an appearance! Originally featured in Your Crochet & Knitting magazine (Issue 54), Bella is a tiny bundle of confectionery-inspired cuteness – with her candy-coloured dress and dainty bow, she’s as sweet as sugar.

But wait – there’s more!

A collection of crochet amigurumi characters inspired by 'Alice in Wonderland', including a pink Cheshire Cat, a white rabbit, Alice, and the Mad Hatter, displayed on a floral tablecloth with a cup of coffee and pastries.

This month, the magazine also includes a special themed supplement called Crochet in Wonderland – and it just so happens to be bursting with even more of my previous makes – The Wonderland Gang! You’ll step through the looking glass and find:

🌀 Alice, with her iconic pinafore and golden locks
😸 The mischievous Cheshire Cat
🎩 A wildly wonderful Mad Hatter
🐇 And my personal favourite – the ever-dashing White Rabbit, waistcoat and all!

Crocheted white rabbit character dressed in blue pants and a yellow vest, holding a pocket watch, set against a backdrop of playing cards. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 123 Supplement

For Alice and friends I used some of my favourite Ricorumi DK yarn with a 3.25mm hook which, if you’re not familiar with it, comes in the cutest 25g balls which is perfect for making little multicoloured amigurumi characters like these.

🐇 SAVE THE WONDERLAND GANG ON RAVELRY 🐇

Where to Find the Patterns

I’m beyond thrilled to see so many of my patterns gathered together in one bumper issue – it feels like a proper crochet tea party, with sweet treats and whimsical characters alike.

If you’re a fan of playful amigurumi and fun themes, then Issue 123 of Crochet Now is an absolute must-have. Whether you’re crafting a mouse who loves bonbons or a Wonderland gang ready for adventure, there’s something here to make your hook (and heart) happy. 💖

All of these patterns I mentioned (9 of mine in total wow!) can be found in issue 123 of Crochet Now, available in shops and online now – you can grab a digital version from www.CraftWorld.com.

Cover of Crochet Now Magazine Issue 123 featuring a woman in a colorful crochet top and amigurumi doll. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 123

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!

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20Jun2025

Triple the Fun in Crochet Now Issue 122

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

I’m so excited to share with you that I have three brand new designs featured in the latest issue of Crochet Now – Issue 122! 🎉 It’s always such a joy to be included in this magazine, and this month’s issue is such fun because it includes lots of fab designs including a sweet toy, a stylish accessory, and a nostalgic dose of childhood magic by me… all wrapped up in one publication!

So let’s dive in and take a closer look at what’s inside…

A playful panda plush named Scoops holding an ice cream cone, alongside a whimsical white cat with a top hat, and a model wearing a stylish yellow-striped crochet top, against colorful backgrounds.

🐼 Meet Scoops the Panda

First up is Scoops the Panda – the cutest little bear with a big love of ice cream! Inspired by sunny days and sweet treats, Scoops is a playful amigurumi panda with a summery twist. He’s holding his very own crochet cone, complete with a colourful scoop that’s perfect for imaginative play or gifting. Made in 4ply yarn, he’s the ideal project for toy lovers or anyone looking for a whimsical amigurumi to brighten their day.

Scoops is a fun make that works up quickly and brings a smile to your face – and with those adorable eyes and cheeky grin, who could resist him?

A handmade crocheted panda plush named Scoops, holding an ice cream cone, set against a pastel blue background with a vintage vehicle and greenery in the background. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 122

🐼 SAVE SCOOPS THE PANDA ON RAVELRY 🐼

I chose Scheepjes Catona for Scoops with a 3mm hook (closest US size C/2). If you are not not familiar with the yarn it is 100% mercerised cotton which comes in either 10g [25m], 50g [125m] or 100g [250m] balls. The only other things you would need for Scoops is:

❤️ Crochet with the Moomins!

Also something for the Moomin fans out there – I was thrilled to be invited to contribute some more patterns to the official Moomins pattern collection! The Moomins have been a beloved part of many childhoods, and now you can crochet your very own additional magical characters from Moominvalley. Whether you’re a long-time Moomin lover or just discovering the charm of Tove Jansson’s world, this project is a real treat.

Two crocheted Moomin characters, one wearing a black top hat and the other wearing a red-striped skirt, set against a pink background with stylized grass and flowers at the bottom. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 122

❤️ SAVE MOOMIN MAMMA & MOOMIN PAPPA ON RAVELRY ❤️

I used DROPS Alpaca for my Moomins as I felt it would be fitting to use a Nordic yarn and the new Moomin characters needed to fit in with the Moomins I have made before. DROPS Alpaca is a 5ply / Sport weight yarn that’s made from 100% Alpaca Wool that comes in 50g (167mm) balls. It’s beautifully soft to work with and has a lovely halo on it, which I think, lends a nice ‘cuddle factor’ to the Moomins. The only other things you would need for the Moomin pair are:

🧣 Sunshade Scallops Shawlette

And finally, something for the accessory lovers – the Sunshade Scallops Shawlette. This lightweight crocheted stripy shawlette is perfect for summer evenings or when you want to add a delicate handmade touch to your outfit. Featuring an elegant scalloped edge and a simple yet effective stitch pattern, it’s an ideal project for advanced beginners or anyone wanting to try something a little different.

A person smiling while holding a yellow and white striped crocheted shawlette against a blue background. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 122

🧣 SAVE SUNSHADE SCALLOPS SHAWLETTE ON RAVELRY 🧣

Crocheted in Cascade Heritage (75% Merino Wool 25% Nylon, 400m (437yds)/100g) with a 3.5mm hook (closest US size E/4), the shawlette has beautiful drape and can be worn in a variety of ways – around the shoulders, as a neck scarf, or even as a head wrap. Cascade Heritage is a beautifully soft and smooth 4ply yarn with excellent drape, making it perfect for delicate accessories, and it comes in a gorgeous range of vibrant and classic colours to suit any project.

Where to Find the Patterns

All three of these patterns can be found in issue 122 of Crochet Now, available in shops and online now – you can grab a digital version from www.CraftWorld.com.

Cover of Crochet Now magazine featuring a smiling woman in a colorful striped sweater, alongside images of crochet Moomin characters and an adorable koala amigurumi. — © 2025 Practical Publishing – Crochet Now Issue 122

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!

30Oct2024

Mischievous Magpie MAL | The Reveal & Pattern Release

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

Apologies for the delay with this release, the summer just flew by and I don’t know where September and October has gone! But I’m thrilled to at last share the final details of the Mischievous Magpie Shawlette with you! This shawlette was part of our 2024 summer make-a-long (MAL), and I’m beyond excited to unveil the completed pattern with all the special elements that made this project a joy to work on with each of you.

Pin for later:

Collage for Pinterest showcasing the Mischievous Magpie make-a-long, featuring images of completed shawlette

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 all about embracing the spirit of magpies—curious, playful, and just a bit mischievous!

This pattern was designed with versatility in mind. It features an elegant triangle shape that drapes effortlessly around your shoulders, perfect for those breezy evenings, early fall outings, or layering up as we head into the cooler months.

Collage featuring hand-dyed yarn inspired by magpie plumage, with skeins of semi-solid black, undyed cream, and vibrant sparkly blue tones. The yarn colours reflect the nearby images of two magpies, showcasing their contrasting black and white feathers and flashes of iridescent blue, mimicking the birds' striking, natural elegance.

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 Mischievous Magpie Shawlette was inspired by the magpie’s striking plumage. Kitey perfectly captured the bold, contrasting colours and subtle sheen with a semi-solid black for depth and drama paired with an undyed yarn reminiscent of light catching on a feather’s edge. To complete the look, a touch of sparkly blue adds a wonderful pop of colour and shimmer, mirroring the flashes of iridescent blue that magpies flaunt in the sunlight.

Close-up of two stitch markers from the Mischievous Magpie make-a-long kit: one featuring a tiny enamel bird with black and white detailing, and the other an iridescent bead that catches the light with a subtle shimmer, adding a playful, magpie-inspired touch to each crochet project.

And in amongst the kit there were, as always, the cutest crochet accessories from the fabulous Mrs G Makes. Continuing the magpie theme she a cute enamel bird with black, white and blue detailing, and the other an iridescent bead that catches the light with a subtle shimmer, adding a playful, magpie-inspired touch to each crochet project.

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 shawlettes’ if you haven’t had chance to make it yet.

Collage of Mischievous Magpie crochet shawlette works-in-progress, created by participants in the summer make-a-long, showcasing various stages of completion.

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.

❤️ SAVE MISCHIEVOUS MAGPIE SHAWLETTE ON RAVELRY ❤️

Reveal of the Mischievous Magpie make-a-long shawlette, featuring blocks of white, sparkly blue, and deep black, with eye-catching black and white striped tips along the edge, inspired by magpie plumage for a bold, elegant finish

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 Mischievous Magpie triangular shawlette.

I would suggest three different colours work best; 100g of blue, 2 x 50g of black and white with a 3mm (Closest US size D/3) 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!

Shawlette from the Mischievous Magpie make-a-long hanging against a lush backdrop of ivy, showcasing its contrasting blocks of white, sparkly blue, and black, with striking black and white striped edging that stands out beautifully against the rich green foliage

Merry Marbles Makealong

Now that the Mischievous Magpie MAL has wrapped up, don’t despair! Our winter make-a-long, Merry Marbles, is just around the corner, and sign-ups are still open. This festive event promises to be a colourful, joy-filled crochet journey that’s perfect for adding a little extra fun to your holiday season. With vibrant projects designed to bring cheer and warmth, Merry Marbles is all about celebrating the cosy spirit of winter with a community of fellow crafters. Whether you’re a returning participant or joining us for the first time, come along and add a dash of merriment to your hooks!

Previous Makealongs

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

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.

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

22Sep2023

Graceful Gull MAL | The Reveal & Pattern Release

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

Well wowzers, September is flying by! It’s probably the right time to say good-bye to the summer and time to finish off the last bits and bobs of our summer Graceful Gull make-along.

The Graceful Gull shawlette draped over a stick on a beach in front of the ocean

The 15th of September was the last ‘official’ day of the latest make along that has been hosted by The Yarn Whisperer and myself. From the 31 July until now we have enjoyed a relaxed summer make along project with lovely fellow crocheters. And now I get the opportunity to share my finished Graceful Gull Shawlette, and it’s pattern, with you!

Close up of the Graceful Gull Shawlette pinned with a shell shawl pin draped on a mannikin in front of a lake.

Inspired by the swoop of a graceful gull this pattern features textured stitches on two curving wings to create a unique and lightweight shawlette.

Close up of a basket with the Graceful Gull makealong hand-dyed yarn inside.

This years colourways were such a lovely summery palette, I really enjoyed working with them.

And in amongst the kit there are the cutest crochet accessories from the fabulous Mrs G Makes. Continuing the seaside theme she created the most adorable little chips and ice-cream stitch markers – a cute and perfect addition to the kit!

Stitch markers of a small packet of fries and an ice-cream made by Mrs G makes for the Graceful Gull makealong kits.

If this is the first you’ve heard about the Graceful Gull MAL you can read more about it here but in a nutshell it’s the result of a wonderful collaboration between myself and Kitey, aka The Yarn Whisperer, of a unique crocheted shawlette designed with a special hand dyed yarn in mind.

It’s made us both incredibly happy to see the photos of folks sharing their progress with us on social media, and I hope you will continue to do so as you finish your shawlettes’ if you haven’t had chance to make it yet.

Collation of Graceful Gull works in progress made by others as part of the summer make along.

❤️ SAVE GRACEFUL GULL SHAWLETTE ON RAVELRY ❤️

The crocheted Graceful Gull Shawlette; a light and airy shawlette is wrapped around a mannikin in front of a lake.

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 Graceful Gull Shawlette.

I would suggest four different colours work best; 100g of white, 2 x 50g of different greys and 20g of orange with a 3mm (Closest US size D/3) hook.

The pattern has a written version, a chart and comes with a bonus pattern to make your own Sea Stone Paperweight – Kitey and I always like to add a little extra something for those scraps of leftover yarn if you have any! The pattern comes with all explanation of stitches used and is available in either UK or US terminology.

Close up of the crocheted Sea Stone Paperweight - bonus pattern with the Graceful Gull Shawlette.

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

Important MAL update

After six make-alongs, for the last three years, Kitey and I have decided to give ourselves a bit of a break for the remainder of 2023 (as it’s been a busy year so far for both of us). So this is your forewarned notice that there will be no new winter make-along for 2023.

But don’t you worry, this isn’t the end! In fact we are just shaking things up a little and are coming back with a new schedule for 2024 and TWO new make-alongs to look forward to (we’ve already got them planned). The first one we will be looking to release in the Spring with details coming out in Jan / Feb 2024 – so watch this space!

Peppermint Pageant (and previous MALs)

And if you are looking for a new WIP Kitey has created some brand new Peppermint Pageant kit colourways especially for 2023 – check out the new colourways in his shop. There’s some gorgeous teals and blues to place with, and the Aran yarn is just joyous to crochet with.

AND all the patterns for our previous make-alongs (Solstice Garden, Whispers of the Sea, Mellow Mallow, Dragonfly River and Peppermint Pageant) are available from my pattern shops if you want to hook something up from your own stash – if you are a newsletter subscriber make sure you check out your exclusive discount code!

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 new collaboration project is revealed!

Pin it for later:

Pinterest of the Graceful Gull Shawlette crochet pattern by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

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

19May2023

Graceful Gull MAL Announcement

Posted in Crochet by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Image of a seagull perched on a wooden pole against a cloudy blue sky.

The Yarn Whisperer and Keep Calm and Crochet On UK logos are in the top right hand corner.

Text reads Graceful Gull Crochet Make-Along, 31 July-15 September 2023. www.keepcalmandcrochetonuk.com

I’m super excited to be joining forces again with the lovely and talented yarn dyer Kitey, aka The Yarn Whisperer, to bring you a brand new summer make-along.

This is our SIXTH collaboration in our make-along series (you can see a round up of all CALs and MALs here) and as always offers a chance to use some wonderful hand-dyed yarn combined with a fun summery crochet project.

Imagine you are sitting on a deck chair at the beach; you are feeling that joyous light-hearted feeling of a being on holiday; no work, just time to recline and relax. The waves are crashing against the shore and you can hear the sounds of chatter and laughter in the distance as the sun softly warms your face.

You are enjoying the anticipation of someone bringing you your favourite ice-cream but while you wait you decide to open up your project bag to start that new WIP. There is a light breeze that gently moves your yarn as you take out the ball and your hook and you hear the call of a seagull as it flies by overhead…

Join us as we take part in the Graceful Gull Make Along!

Moodboard collage for the Graceful Gull Crochet Makealong; 4 skeins of yarn sit on a bed of shells, a close up of a seagull, a seagull feather sticking upright in the sand.

If you are not sure what a MAL is, you can read more on the MAL landing page here, but Kitey and I have actually had this planned since last years Christmas collab (and we may have already planned more projects into 2024 – we do get a bit over excited when we start talking!)

This time around we are going to be making a shawlette, which I’m not going to show you yet, and I’m not going to give away too much about the project, but what I will say is that I really, really love everything about it and can’t wait to share it with you!

An exclusive pattern and kit are being created for this extra special MAL. Each kit will include the following super washed merino 4ply (Sock weight) yarn;

1x 100g / 425m skein of natural
2x 50g / 212m skeins of two exclusive hand-dyed colourways
1 x 20g / 85m of another exclusive hand-dyed colourway
A digital copy of the pattern
A few extra treats, including an EXCLUSIVE @mrsgmakes stitch marker, just for good measure!

Pin this project for later:

Pinterest collage including; Image of a seagull perched on a wooden pole against a cloudy blue sky. Some skeins of yarn rest on some shells, a seagull feather is stood up in some sand.

Text reads Graceful Gull Crochet Summer 2023 Crochet Make Along. www.keepcalmandcrochetonuk.com

Pre-ordered kits will be available for £45 + postage, and can be made on The Yarn Whisperer website from 10 am on 9th May and if you order in the first 24 hours you can enjoy a 10% Early Bird discount.

AND if you order your kit in the first 24 hours you can enjoy a 10% Early Bird discount.

Kits will be dyed to order over the coming weeks, with generally a 1 week turn-around from order to shipping. But get in quick to ensure you get yours in plenty of time to crochet along with us!

Last International orders will be shipped by 25^th June if ordered by the end of May. UK orders will continue to be shipped after this date but ordering early ensures your kit arrives in plenty of time to join us on 31st July.

The Make Along will run from 31^st July to 15^th September for a nice relaxed project with plenty of time for you 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.

I’ve put together all the details for this particular MAL on a landing page which you can find here, or find via the top menu of this blog under the tab ‘CALS AND MALS’.

Social post for #GracefulGullMAL, Crochet MakeAlong, 31 July - 15 September 2023 By @the_yarnwhisperer and @kcaco.uk

There will be support for the pattern as usual in my Facebook group; the KCACO-UK Crochet Community Group. You can also pop in and join in with the Virtual Stitch-n-B*tch sessions hosted by Kitey on Tuesday’s evenings from 5.20pm GMT (see full details on Kitey’s Insta page). These sessions are a bit like going to a virtual knit and natter group, and everyone there is really lovely and helpful.

We look forward to you sharing your WIPs with us and we will be using hashtags #GracefulGullMAL #kcacouk and #yarnwhisperer if you want to tag us on socials – we love to see what you make.

You can also save the project as a favourite on Ravelry here.

We do hope that you will join both Kitey and I 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

P.S. You may wish to sign up to the blog (or my newsletter) if you haven’t already, and The Yarn Whisperer newsletter so you’ll be the first to know any new collab updates!

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