Free Crochet Pattern | Dýnami Cable Earwarmer

Hi folks, I’ve got a brand new FREE pattern to share with you today, the Dýnami Cable Earwarmer. A great first crochet cable project to create a quick cosy headband.

A young women models the crocheted Dýnami Cable Earwarmer in an outside setting

The idea for this headband came about all because of my friend Sharon who is currently raising money for MIND as she prepares to run the London Marathon (you can watch some of her prep YouTube videos here). As part of her fundraising she was doing a few coffee morning sales, where cake and crochet were combined, and a few of her crochet friends were going to donate some crochet items to help her raise some funds.

As we chatted about what we could provide I got to thinking about headbands / ear warmers, something that runners could potentially use, and plus it’s a cute and cosy accessory for us non-runners out there! So I put my name down for some ear warmers and decided to come up with a brand new design in honour of Sharon’s venture.

The name of the headband ‘dýnami’ comes from the word ‘strength’ in Greek as I was thinking about marathons and having that stamina to run 26.2 miles (42km) – I couldn’t do it so thank goodness for people like Sharon who have the focus and dedication! Plus MIND is a great charity to raise money for, I’m sure everyone knows someone who’s life has been touched by mental health challenges – I know mine has.

Image of the crocheted Dýnami Cable Earwarmer in an outside setting

So as I’m on a bit of a yarn ban this year (because I seriously have enough yarn to fill a shop) instead of buying I went stash diving for these headbands. I knew I wanted something wool, as wool has the ability to manage moisture and regulate temperature, which I thought would be useful if you did want to use the headband whilst out for a run.

In my ample stash I found a load of different colours of Drops LIMA Mix. I actually have no idea what my original plan was for the yarn, as they were a few random different colours, but it was pretty much exactly what I was looking for to create the ear warmers. I would suggest that a solid shade yarn, rather than a variegated yarn, would work best for this patterns so you can see the textured cables.

Image of some Drops Lima Mix yarn and a work in progress crocheted Dýnami Cable Earwarmer in an outside setting

I actually don’t know why I haven’t used the Drops LIMA Mix before now because it’s LOVELY! I thoroughly enjoyed crocheting with it. The DK (8ply / Light Worsted) yarn comes in 50g (100m / 109yds) balls and is a squishy mix of 65% Wool and 35% Alpaca which is beautifully soft and pleasant to work with.

Scroll down for the free version of this pattern but I’d recommend the purchase of the ad-free PDF Pattern if you’d like all the instructions and pictures in a nice document which you can print and take notes on without relying on your phone or an internet connection.

Before we get to the pattern if you would like to contribute to Sharon’s fundraising for MIND, before 23 April 2023, then you can on her specific charity page although this pattern is free, if you purchase the PDF pattern before this date any income generated I will pass over for MIND too.

Pin this project for later:

Dýnami Cable Earwarmer

The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Materials

Skill Level: 3 – Intermediate

Yarn: Double Knit, 8ply / yarn weight #3 (Light),

50g (100m) Drops LIMA mix

Drops LIMA mix used in photographs in shades Beige Mix 0619, Off White 0100, Dark Grey Mix 0519, Jeans Blue 6235, Deep Taupe 5610

A single 50g ball will make 1 adult ladies sized headband to fit an approximate 22 inch / 58cm circumference sized head if you match gauge. You can continue the pattern to make a bigger size but you will then need an additional ball of yarn.

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

Hook: 4mm (US size G/6)

You will also need:

Gauge: 5htr = 2.5cm (1”)

Obtaining the correct gauge is critical to this project for two reasons; if you do not match gauge then either your item will be bigger or smaller than the specified finished size, and as cables are a bit of a yarn eater then you may run out of yarn. Try going up or down a hook size to meet gauge and/or if you know you crochet loosely maybe make sure you have extra yarn before you start.

Finished Sizes:

Pre-schooler/Toddler Size: follow pattern, stop after row 65, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 43cm / 17 in long)
Child Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 69, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 46cm / 18 in long)
Adult Ladies Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 77, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 58cm / 22 in long)

Stitch Guidance

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble Crochet (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Front post double treble (FPdtr):
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space

Pattern Notes

The ch1 at the start of a rnd does not count as a st

Pattern

MATERIALS

Yarn Required: 50g / 100m / 109yds of Double Knit, 8ply / yarn weight #3 (Light)

Yarn Used in photos:

Drops LIMA mix used in photographs in shades:

Beige Mix 0619, Off White 0100, Dark Grey Mix 0519, Jeans Blue 6235, Deep Taupe 5610

About the yarn:

Drops Lima Mix; DK; 50g / 100m / 109yds 65% Wool, 35% Alpaca

A single 50g ball will make one headband to fit an approximate 22 inch / 58cm circumference sized head if you match gauge. You can continue the pattern to make a bigger size but you will then need an additional ball of yarn.

Hook Size(s): 4mm (US size G/6).

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size may be different.

You will also need:

· A yarn needle

· Stitch Markers

Gauge: 5htr = 2.5cm (1”)

Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match the gauge stated then your finished item will be a different size.

Finished size: Guidance provided for adjusting the headband for different sizes given in the pattern.

STITCH GUIDANCE

Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Front Post Double Treble (FPdtr): Yarn over hook (twice), insert your hook from front to back to front around the post of the stitch indicated, yarn over, pull up a loop, (yarn over, pull through 2 loops on your hook) 3 times.

PATTERN NOTES

Right side (RS): This indicates the right side of your work
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified

PATTERN

The ch1 at the start of a row does not count as a st.
You may find it useful to add a stitch marker to the first / and last st of a row.

Row 1 (RS): Ch17, 1htr in the 4th ch from hook, 1htr in each st across until the end, turn. 15sts

Row 2: Ch1, 1dc in each st across until the end, turn. 15sts

Row 3 (RS): Ch1, 1htr in the next 2sts, miss 2sts from the last st worked on current row and 4 sts two rows below [FPdtr around the post of the next 2sts, then working back over the FPdtr you’ve just made, FPdtr in the two missed sts], 1htr in the next st, FPdtr in the next st, 1htr in the next st, repeat [ … ] once more, 1htr in the last 2sts. 15sts

Row 4: Ch1, 1dc in each st across until the end, turn. 15sts

Row 5 (RS): Ch1, 1htr in the next 2sts, [FPdtr around the post of the 4sts (the FPdtr) two rows below, 1htr in the next st, FPdtr in the next st, repeat [ … ] once more, 1htr in the last 2sts. 15sts

Repeat rows 2 – 5 for the pattern;

Approximate measurements given below for different sizes, however for best fit measure the head in question and work until the band measures 1cm / 0.4 inches smaller than required as the headband will stretch.

For sizes greater than the largest size please note you will need more than one ball of yarn.

Pre-schooler/Toddler Size: follow pattern, stop after row 65, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 43cm / 17 in long)
Child Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 69, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 46cm / 18 in long)
Adult Ladies Size: follow pattern, stop repeats after row 77, follow directions for seaming and wrapping. (approx. 58cm / 22 in long)

Fasten off the yarn on your last row but leave a long yarn tail attached.

FINISHING

Join the two ends of the headband together with the right sides facing each other.
Loosely slip stitch along the row, pushing your hook through both layers of the headband for each stitch, so that you create a seam.
Thread the tail of the yarn through a darning needle and sew a couple of stitches before trimming off the excess. Turn the headband right side out.

And that’s it, enjoy your new headband!

Partial chart for the Dynami Cable Earwarmer in UK Terms

If you enjoyed this pattern please give it a love, or leave a comment or review on the platform you got it from – and I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

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

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2Mar2023

The Wraps, Scarves and Cowls: Spring Blog Hop

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

I’m excited to say I’m going to be taking part in a new crochet blog hop! From 3 – 22 March Madame Stitch is hosting a blog hop featuring 22 fabulous crochet designers.

Graphic featuring the Wraps, Scarves and Cowls Spring Blog Hop with a list of all 22 designers

Each day beginning tomorrow, Friday 3 March, at 1pm UK time (8am ET), a crochet wrap, scarf or cowl design will be featured on the Madame Stitch blog.

AND you lovely crocheters will be able to get the pattern as a free PDF download for 24 hrs with the coupon code that will be provided!

Collage graphic of many of the designs available in the Wraps, Scarves and Cowls Spring Blog Hop

In this Spring Edition of the Wraps, Scarves and Cowls blog hop, you’ll find crochet women’s accessories for all your needs. You might want something that:

Adds a dash of color to your favorite outfit.
Wraps you in warmth on a cool spring day.
Creates an elegant evening look for a night out on the town.

There are some really fabulous designs on offer in this blog hop!

Another collage graphic of many of the designs available in the Wraps, Scarves and Cowls Spring Blog Hop

I’m going to leave it as a surprise as to which day of March is my day, and what my design is, but I can say it’s a brand NEW cowl design made with some very fabulous yarn from one of my favourite yarn dyers – I think that was quite a big hint! Can you guess which one it is?

If you can’t wait for everyday in March, because you want things now, then there is also an option to purchase the pattern bundle for ALL the patterns from the blog hop for just £12.50 ($15)

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.

Button graphic to purchase the Wraps, Scarves and Cowls Spring Blog Hop pattern bundle of 22 patterns

This pattern bundle of crochet women’s accessories won’t last for long. It will only be available until Sunday, 26 March 2023.

So make sure you visit the Madame Stitch roundup post every day from 3rd through to the 24th March to pick that day’s featured pattern PDF absolutely free! And be sure to give my fellow designers some love as they share their work on each of the blog hop days.

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

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

24Feb2023

The Enchanted Wood: Part 6 – Mushrooms

Posted in Crochet, crochet-along, Free Patterns by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

How are you all doing? Are you ready for Part 6 of the CAL?

I’ve so enjoyed watching the pinecones develop from last week in the Facebook group and Instagram! It’s so lovely to see the crochet community come together around the project, from all parts of the world, I can’t tell you how lovely it is to see your work progressing week by week!

Below you can see some of the wonderful photos of the CAL that have been shared of the last part, aren’t they wonderful! If you want to link your photos the hashtag for this years CAL is #KCACOUKCAL23 for Twitter and Instagram. Though you you can also join in with any progress photos by linking your projects on your favourite social media sites: Ravelry, my Facebook page or Facebook group and Pinterest.

Collage of KCACOUKCAL Part 5 works in progress made by others

So let’s get down to Part 6 then shall we, this week we are going to be adding some mushrooms to our Enchanted Wood.

I always thing that mushrooms are a fascinating and diverse feature of woodlands, many species can be spotted all year round and there are hundreds of different types. Fungi are the main decomposers the woods breaking down dead plants, basically it feeds itself by digesting organic matter which it then returns as nutrients to the soil. Clever little things, so I thought they needed a place in our blanket.

Inspirational shot of woodland mushrooms for Part 6 of the KCACOUKCAL23

As before, as well as the written pattern I have included a crochet chart as an extra visual tool. If you are not familiar with reading charts, you you might find my blog post about ‘How to read a crochet chart’ a useful starting point.

If you are brand new to the CAL you can find all the information you need on the CAL landing page, where I’ll link all the CAL posts in one place as I add them here to the blog. Yarn packs are available from the lovely folks at Black Sheep Wools and there are a number of CAL accessories that are also available from some fabulous small businesses (that I talked a little more about here).

SHOP ENCHANTED WOOD YARN KITS

The pattern for this crochet along will be available for free here on the blog but sometimes it’s easier to have a printable PDF to refer to. The whole pattern therefore will also be available in a printer friendly PDF version in my Ravelry store (for a one off payment). Each weekly instalment will become ready for immediate download in either UK or US terms. As with any purchase you make of my patterns your support of me and my crochet endeavours is very much appreciated – thank you for supporting my work!

PURCHASE UK / US PATTERN

A Dutch version of the pattern will be put together by the very lovely Iris from Eenmooigebaar via the link below. Iris has brilliantly translated a range of my patterns before (these are also available on the website) so I’m delighted she’s joining us again this time.

PURCHASE DUTCH PDF

Image of Part 6 of the KCACOUKCAL23 hanging between two trees in a woodland scene

The Enchanted Wood: Part 6 – Mushrooms

Yarn: 160g / 400m / 437yds or 2 x 100g ball of Stylecraft Naturals Cotton and Bamboo in Celery (7155) – YARN H or alternatively 2 x 100g of Stylecraft Special DK in Pistachio (1822) – YARN F

Hook: 3.5 mm (US size E/4)

You will also need: Scissors, A yarn needle, stitch markers

Gauge: 5 htr sts = 2.5cm (1”). Gauge is not critical for this design, with each part I will provide the size of my work. If your gauge does not meet mine it will just mean you will end up with a bigger or smaller blanket. If you wish to match my gauge you might try going up a hook size if your tension is quite tight, or going down a hook size if your tension is looser.

Finished Size (Unblocked): Part 6 Approximate measurements:

In Naturals 84cm (33”) wide x 104cm (40.9”) long
In Special DK: 85.5cm (33.5”) wide x 103.5cm (40.5”) long.

The pattern below is in UK Terms, scroll down for US Terms:

STITCH GUIDANCE

Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and pull through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Seven Treble Cluster (7trCl): Work 7 trebles into one stitch.
Back Post Treble (BPtr): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around post of indicated stitch below (your hook should now be positioned horizontally behind of the st that you’re working around), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over pull through two loops on hook (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through remaining loops on hook.
Puff Stitch (PF): Work puff stitches in this pattern as follows; Yarn over and insert your hook into the specified stitch/space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop. (Yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch / space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop) repeat from ( …) three more times (5 times total – 11 loops on hook). Yarn over and pull through 10 loops on your hook (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through last 2 loops on hook to close. Puff stitches will show on the other side of your work when made.
Right side (RS): This indicates the right side of your work
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space

SCHEMATIC – PART 6

PATTERN – PART 6

You will build part 6 onto the right side of the CAL;

With the right side facing you will work on the row ends of part 5, then across part 4, then on the row ends of part 5 again.
We will be adding rows, working from the bottom upwards, where there isn’t a st you will use post of sts of the row ends of Part 5.
The ch3 counts as the first st, if this produces too much of a gap at the start of a row it can be substituted for a ch2.
The ch1 at the start of a row doesn’t count as a stitch.
You will not count the sl st’s of row 5 in your stitch count when instructed to miss sts.
If you find that your rows are pulling into the centre you may wish to use a larger hook for this section e.g. 4mm (US size G/6).

Row 1 (RS): Sl st to join YARN H around the post of the last st of Part 5; ch3, 1tr in the same st,[ miss st at end of the next row, 2tr around the post of the next st ] repeat from [ … ] evenly fourteen times on Part 3, 1tr in the corner of Part 4, BPtr in the next 123sts of Part 4, 1tr in the corner of Part 4, 2tr around the post of the next 2sts [miss st at the end of the next row, 2tr around the post of the next st], repeat { … ] evenly twelve times more on the row ends of Part 5, turn. 62 tr / 123 BPtr / 185 sts

Row 2: Ch3, 1tr in the next st, [ch1, miss st, 1tr in the next 3sts] repeat { … ] across until the last 3sts, ch1, miss st, 1tr in the last 2sts, turn. 139 tr / 46 x ch1-sps

Row 3: Ch3, 1tr in each st across, turn. 185 tr

Row 4 (WS) : Ch3, 1tr in the next st, [ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1tr in the

next 3sts ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1tr in the last 2sts. 70 tr / 46 x ch2-sps / 23 PF

Row 5: Ch1, 1dc in the next st, sl st in the next st, [miss 2 ch, 7trCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next tr, ch4, miss next st, sl st in the top of the next tr] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 2 ch, 7trCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next tr, 1dc in the last st, turn. 23 x 7trCl / 22 x ch4-sps / 2 dc

Row 6: Ch6 (counts as tr + ch3), [ miss 3sts, 1 dc in the top centre tr of the 7trCl, ch3, miss 3sts, 1htr in the ch4-sp, ch3 ] repeat from { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 3sts, 1 dc in the top centre of the 7trCl, miss 3sts, 1tr in the last st, turn. 2tr / 22 htr / 23 dc / 46 x ch3-sps

Row 7: Ch3, [ 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the next dc, 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the next htr ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the next dc, 3tr in the next ch3-sp, 1tr in the last st, turn. 185 tr

Rows 8 – 13: Repeat rows 2 – 7

Rows 14—15: Repeat rows 2 – 3. 185 sts

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Reattach YARN H to the opposite side of your work and repeat rows 1 – 15. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Partial chart of Part 6 of the KCACOUKCAL23 in UK Terms

Pattern in US Terms:

Image of Part 6 of the KCACOUKCAL23 draped over a branch in a woodland scene.

STITCH GUIDANCE

Chain (ch): Bring yarn over hook from back to front and grab it with hook. Draw hooked yarn through slip knot and onto hook.
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and pull through all loops.
Single Crochet (sc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Double Crochet (hdc): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Double Crochet (dc): Yarn over, insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Seven Double Crochet Cluster (7dcCl): Work 7 double crochet into one stitch.
Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around post of indicated stitch below (your hook should now be positioned horizontally behind of the st that you’re working around), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over pull through two loops on hook (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through remaining loops on hook.
Right side (RS): This indicates the right side of your work
Puff Stitch (PF): Work puff stitches in this pattern as follows; Yarn over and insert your hook into the specified stitch/space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop. (Yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch / space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop) repeat from ( …) three more times (5 times total – 11 loops on hook). Yarn over and pull through 10 loops on your hook (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through last 2 loops on hook to close. Puff stitches will show on the other side of your work when made.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space

SCHEMATIC – PART 6

PATTERN – PART 6

You will build part 6 onto the right side of the CAL;

· With the right side facing you will work on the row ends of part 5, then across part 4, then on the row ends of part 5 again.
· We will be adding rows, working from the bottom upwards, where there isn’t a st you will use post of sts of the row ends of Part 5.
· The ch3 counts as the first st, if this produces too much of a gap at the start of a row it can be substituted for a ch2.
· The ch1 at the start of a row doesn’t count as a stitch.
· You will not count the sl st’s of row 5 in your stitch count when instructed to miss sts.
· If you find that your rows are pulling into the centre you may wish to use a larger hook for this section e.g. 4mm (US size G/6).

Row 1 (RS): Sl st to join YARN H around the post of the last st of Part 5; ch3, 1dc in the same st,[ miss st at end of the next row, 2dc around the post of the next st ] repeat from [ … ] evenly fourteen times on Part 3, 1dc in the corner of Part 4, BPdc in the next 123sts of Part 4, 1dc in the corner of Part 4, 2dc around the post of the next 2sts [miss st at the end of the next row, 2dc around the post of the next st], repeat { … ] evenly twelve times more on the row ends of Part 5, turn. 62 dc / 123 BPdc / 185 sts

Close up of Parts 5 and Part 6 of the KCACOUKCAL23

Row 2: Ch3, 1dc in the next st, [ch1, miss st, 1dc in the next 3sts] repeat { … ] across until the last 3sts, ch1, miss st, 1dc in the last 2sts, turn. 139 dc / 46 x ch1-sps

Row 3: Ch3, 1dc in each st across, turn. 185 dc

Row 4 (WS) : Ch3, 1dc in the next st, [ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the next 3sts ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, ch2, miss 2sts, PF in the next st, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the last 2sts. 70 dc / 46 x ch2-sps / 23 PF

Row 5: Ch1, 1sc in the next st, sl st in the next st, [miss 2 ch, 7dcCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next dc, ch4, miss next st, sl st in the top of the next dc] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 2 ch, 7dcCl in the top of the next PF st, miss 2 ch, sl st in the top of the next dc, 1sc in the last st, turn. 23 x 7dcCl / 22 x ch4-sps / 2 sc

Row 6: Ch6 (counts as dc + ch3), [ miss 3sts, 1 sc in the top centre dc of the 7dcCl, ch3, miss 3sts, 1hdc in the ch4-sp, ch3 ] repeat from { … ] across another twenty-one times, miss 3sts, 1 sc in the top centre of the 7dcCl, miss 3sts, 1dc in the last st, turn. 2dc / 22 hdc / 23 sc / 46 x ch3-sps

Row 7: Ch3, [ 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the next sc, 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the next hdc ] repeat { … ] across another twenty-one times, 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the next sc, 3dc in the next ch3-sp, 1dc in the last st, turn. 185 dc

Rows 8 – 13: Repeat rows 2 – 7

Rows 14—15: Repeat rows 2 – 3. 185 sts

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Reattach YARN H to the opposite side of your work and repeat rows 1 – 15. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Partial chart of Part 6 of the KCACOUKCAL23 in US Terms

And that’s it! Part 6 completed! I hope you’ve enjoyed the start and I can’t wait to se your mushrooms sprout from Parts 4 and 5!

The Schedule, Updates & Support:

As always if you need a reminder of the schedule then you can find the details on the CAL landing page (here) and you can keep up to date with the CAL details and get support if needed via the following links:

As I may have mentioned before the Facebook group is a lovely place of support, there are crocheters in there of all experiences, with new crocheters joining all the time! It’s likely that someone will be able to help you with any questions you might have though of course you can always contact me too here on the blog if you need any help.

The hashtag for this years CAL is #KCACOUKCAL23 for Twitter and Instagram. Though you you can join in with any progress photos by linking your projects on your favourite social media sites: Ravelry, Facebook page or Facebook group and Pinterest.

Thank you for crocheting along with me – the next eleven weeks are going to be so much fun!

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

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

11Oct2022

Free Crochet Pattern | Isaz Afghan Block

Posted in Afghan Square, Crochet, Free Patterns by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m excited to share a brand new free crochet block pattern with you today called the Isaz Afghan Block. Named after the Viking word for ‘Ice’ this 8 inch (20cm²) crochet block is filled with wintery themed textures crochet stitches that would make a lovely textured addition to your crochet blanket.

Crochet squares I think are such fun things to play with because you can come up with unlimited ideas and colour combinations – I had real fun with the texture on this block.

I’ve used some Scheepjes Stone Washed XL for my square but you could easily use up scrap yarn to make several of the these blocks and join them into an afghan/ blanket, or a scarf maybe, or even a table runner.

This block pattern is part of the Charity Cozy Fall make along (MAL) where 60 unique blanket squares are released for the month of October to form a cozy blanket. You can find all the MAL info in this post here, along with a link to a PDF bundle for either crochet, knit or Tunisian crochet squares (or to all three in a Trifecta saver bundle). 30% of all proceeds go towards supporting children in need as a donation to Cure Childhood Cancer. The PDF bundle is only available for the duration of the MAL – so grab your bundle now!

GRAB CROCHET BUNDLE HERE

GRAB TUNISIAN BUNDLE HERE

GRAB KNIT BUNDLE HERE

GRAB ALL 3 BUNDLES (AND SAVE!)

Pin this project for later:

Isaz Afghan Block

The pattern below is written just in UK terms but you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Materials

Yarn: 10ply / yarn weight #4 (Worsted), Scheepjes Stone Washed XL used in photographs.

Crystal Quartz (854) YARN A
Green Agate (855) YARN B
Blue Apatite (845) YARN C

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

Hook: US size H/8 (5 mm )

You will also need:

Gauge: 4dc = 3inch / 7.6cm

Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match then your finished item will be a different size.

Finished Size: 8 x 8 inches (20.3 x 20.3cm)

Stitch Guidance

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble Crochet (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Back Post Treble (BPtr): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around post of indicated stitch below (your hook should now be positioned horizontally behind of the st that you’re working around), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over pull through 2 loops on hook (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through remaining loops on hook.
[ … ] Repeat section in square brackets until specified
( … ) Repeat section in curved brackets into one stitch or space

Pattern Notes

The ch1 at the start of a rnd does not count as a st
The ch2 at the start of a rnd counts as a half treble st.
The ch3 at the start of a rnd counts as a treble st.

Pattern

Rnd 1: With Yarn A; ch4 and sl st to form a ring, Ch3, work 2 tr into the ring, ch3, [ 3tr, ch3 ] repeat from [ … ] twice more, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off A and weave in ends. 12sts / 4 x ch3-sps

Rnd 2: Join Yarn B with a sl st to any ch3-sp; ch1, [ (1dc, ch3, 1dc) in the same sp, ch3, miss 3 sts ] repeat from [ … ] three times, sl st to the top of the beginning ch to join.. 8sts / 8 x ch3-sps

Rnd 3: Sl st to the next ch3-sp; ch6 (counts at first tr + ch3, here and throughout), 3tr in the same sp, [ ch2, 1dc in the next ch3-sp, ch2, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) in the next ch3-sp ] repeat twice more, ch2, 1dc in the next ch3-sp, ch2, 2tr in the ch3-sp, sl st to the 3rd ch of the beginning ch6 to join. Fasten off B and weave in ends, 28sts / 8 x ch2-sps, 4 x ch3-sps.

Rnd 4: Join Yarn C with a sl st to any ch3-sp; ch6, 1tr in the same sp, [ BPtr in the next 3sts, miss 2ch, 3tr in the dc of rnd 3, miss 2ch, BPtr in the next 3sts, (1tr, ch3, 1tr) in the next ch3-sp, repeat [ … ] twice, BPtr in the next 3sts, miss 2ch, 3tr in the dc of rnd 3, miss 2ch, BPtr in the next 3sts, sl st to the 3rd ch of the beginning ch6 to join. Fasten off C and weave in ends, 44sts / 4 x ch3-sps.

Rnd 5: Join Yarn A with a sl st to any ch3-sp; ch5 (counts at first htr + ch3, here and throughout) 1htr in the same sp, 1htr in 4sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1htr in 4sts, (1htr, ch3, 1htr) ] repeat [ … ] twice, 1htr in 4sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1htr in 4sts, sl st to the top of the 2nd ch of the beginning 5ch. Fasten off C and weave in ends, 52sts / 4 x ch3-sps.

Rnd 6: Join Yarn B with a sl st to any ch3-sp; ch6, 3tr in the same sp, [ ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the next st, miss 2sts, ch2, 1tr in the next 3sts, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the next st, miss 2sts, ch2, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) ] repeat [ … ] twice, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the next st, miss 2sts, ch2, 1tr in the next

3sts, ch2, miss 2sts, 1dc in the next st, miss 2sts, ch2, 2tr in the ch3-sp, sl st to the 3rd ch of the beginning ch6 to join. Fasten off B and weave in ends, 44sts / 16 x ch2-sps, 4 x ch3-sps.

Rnd 7: Join Yarn C with a sl st to any ch3-sp; ch6, 1tr in the same sp, [ BPtr in the next 3sts, 3tr in the dc of the previous rnd, BPtr in the next 3sts, 3tr in the dc of the previous rnd, BPtr in the next 3sts, (1tr, ch3, 1tr) in the next ch-sp ] repeat [ … ] twice, BPtr in the next 3sts, BPtr in the next 3sts, 3tr in the dc of the previous rnd, BPtr in the next 3sts, 3tr in the dc of the previous rnd, BPtr in the next 3sts. Fasten off C and weave in ends, 68sts / 4 x ch3-sps

Rnd 8: With Yarn A; ch5, 1htr in the same ch-sp, 1htr in 4sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1htr in 3sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1htr in 4sts, (1htr, ch3, 1htr) repeat [ … ] twice, 1htr in 4sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1htr in 3sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1htr in 4sts. Sl st to the 2nd ch of the beginning 5ch to join. to Fasten off A and weave in ends, 76sts / 4 x ch3- sps

Rnd 9: Yarn C with a sl st to any ch3-sp; ch6, 2tr in the same sp, [ 1tr in 8sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1tr in 8sts (2tr, ch3, 2tr) ] repeat [ … ] three times, 1tr in 8sts, BPtr in 3sts, 1tr in 8sts. 1tr in the ch3-sp, sl st to the 3rd ch of the beginning ch6 to join. Fasten off C and weave in ends, 92sts / 4 x ch3-sps

And that’s it!

BLOCKING

Your square may benefit from being blocked;

1. Completely soak your item in cold water then gently squeeze (without wringing it) out some of the excess water.

2. Using your tape measure and pins, carefully pin your item on your blocking board

3. Double check your measurements if necessary (i.e. check the height and width are correct)

4. Leave to dry completely over 24 hours and then unpin.

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

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17Nov2021

Free Crochet Pattern | Crochet Cloth Trio

Posted in Afghan Square, Crochet, Free Patterns by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

A few months ago I was contacted by the folks at Performance Yarn to see if I would like to try out some of their products. Never one to shy away from trying something new, especially yarn related, I said yes please – and they kindly sent me a few of their products to try.

In the package that arrived their were a few different yarns; there were some balls of their Lollipop 100% organic cotton in a variegated shades of white, reds, browns and pinks. There was another type of yarn called Woolinen, which is a gorgeous 80% merino superwash and 20% linen each in a solid forest green and bracken brown colour, and finally some Cotton Bay which is 100% combed cotton in some lovely bright pink, yellow and white. That particular yarn caught my eye for a project that I’ve had on my mind to do for awhile now; I’ve been wanting to make some crochet cloths.

I’ve been asked a few times about good patterns for a newbie crocheters to try, especially if they don’t like the idea of making granny squares. Well crochet dishcloths are a great starter project and they are a great way to learn new stitches. As they are usually made with textured crochet stitches they are ideal for cleaning either your dishes or scrubbing your face. They make great gifts (for housewarming or for a spa bundle) and are usually quite quick to make.

The best type of yarn to use for crochet washcloths is either cotton (or a cotton blend) just like the combed Cotton Bay I was sent to try. Cotton is durable, absorbent, washable and dries quickly and fully so perfect for cleaning cloths.

The Crochet Cloth Trio pattern is available for free here on the blog or, if you prefer working with a printout, you can pick up a PDF of the pattern for a nominal price (links below).

The pattern below is written just in UK terms, if you aren’t sure of those you can view a handy US conversion chart here on the blog.

Pin this project for later:

Crochet Cloth Trio

Materials

Yarn Required: Approx 40g or less per cloth

Yarn Used: Performance Cotton Bay in shades:

187 (Yellow) YARN A
02 (White) YARN B
34 (Pink) YARN C

About the yarn: 4ply / Sport weight: 120m per 50g ball .

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

Hook: 3mm (US size D/3)

You will also need:

Gauge: 5dc = 1inch / 2.5cm

Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match then your finished item will be a different size.

Finished Size: 8 x 8 inches (20.3 x 20.3cm)

Stitch Guidance

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble Crochet (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
Front Post double crochet (FPdc): Insert hook from back to front around the post of the stitch of the stitch below. Yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through remaining two loops on hook.

Patterns

LEMON PEEL CLOTH

Beginning ch any odd number of stitches;
The ch1 / ch2 at the start of a row does not count as a st

Row 1: With Yarn A; ch42, 1dc in second ch from hook, [1tr in the next ch, 1dc in the next ch] repeat across the row until the end, turn. 41 sts

Row 2: Ch2, 1tr in the first st, [1dc in the next st, 1tr in the next st] repeat across the row until the end, turn.

Row 3: Ch1, 1dc in the first st, [1tr in the next st, 1dc in the next st] repeat across the row until the end, turn.

Rows 4 – 32: Repeat rows 2 to 3 for the pattern or until your cloth measures your desired size. E.g. 8 x 8 inches (20.3 x 20.3 cm)

EVEN MOSS STITCH CLOTH

Beginning ch any odd number of stitches;
The ch1 / ch2 at the start of a row does not count as a st
Do not pull your slip stitches too tight

Row 1: With Yarn B; ch42, 1htr in second ch from hook, [sl st in the next ch, 1htr in the next ch] repeat across the row until the end, turn. 41 sts

Row 2: Ch1, sl st on the top of the previous 1htr [ 1htr on top of the sl st of the previous row, sl st on top of the htr of the previous row ] repeat across the row until the end, turn.

Row 3: Ch1, 1htr on the top of the previous 1htr [ sl st on top of the htr of the previous row, 1 htr on top of the sl st of the previous row ] repeat across the row until the end, turn.

Rows 4 – 46: Repeat rows 2 to 3 for the pattern or until your cloth measures your desired size. E.g. 8 x 8 inches (20.3 x 20.3 cm)

VINTAGE RASPBERRY STITCH CLOTH

Beginning ch any even number of stitches;
The ch1 at the start of a row does not count as a st
Do not work the FPdc too tightly

Row 1: With Yarn A; ch43, 1dc in second ch from hook, 1dc in each st until end., turn. 42 sts

Row 2: Ch1, [1dc in the next st, 1FPdc in the next st] repeat across the row until the end, turn.

Row 3: Ch1, 1dc in the next st, [1dc in the next st, 1FPdc in the next st] repeat across the row until the last 2sts, 1dc in the remaining sts, turn.

Rows 4 – 44: Repeat rows 2 to 3 for the pattern or until your cloth measures your desired size. E.g. 8 x 8 inches (20.3 x 20.3 cm)

Edging for all Cloths

Do not fasten off after the last row but work 1dc evenly along each row and row end (with 3dc in each corner). Fasten off and weave in ends.

BLOCKING

Your cloths may benefit from being blocked;

1. Completely soak your item in cold water then gently squeeze (without wringing it) out some of the excess water.

2. Using your tape measure and pins, carefully pin your item on your blocking board

3. Double check your measurements if necessary (i.e. check the height and width are correct)

4. Leave to dry completely over 24 hours and then unpin.

And that’s it! I hope you enjoy using your new cloths!

If you enjoyed this pattern please give it a love, or leave a comment or review on the platform you got it from – And I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make! And finally you may wish to make sure you are signed up to blog (below) and / or my mailing list to get a reminder when new blog posts, discounts or new pattern releases are available.

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

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26Oct2021

Free Crochet Pattern | Autumn Turn Afghan Block

Posted in Afghan Square, Crochet, Free Patterns by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I’m so excited to finally share with you a brand new free crochet block pattern. It’s called an Autumn Turn and it’s inspired by the turning of the seasons.

I love Autumn, and I love nothing better than going for a lovely walk when it’s a crisp Autumn day, where it’s not too cold, but you have to get a bit wrapped up in some woollies. Inspired by the colours and textures you might see if you are out and about this time of year the Autumn Turn Block makes for a cosy project that would look great together in a blanket or as a component in a multi-square afghan.

The Autumn Turn pattern is available for free here on the blog or, if you prefer working with a printout, you can pick up a PDF of the pattern for a nominal price (links below).

The pattern is available in both UK and US crochet terminology via the PDF download; the pattern below is written just in UK terms. But you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Pin this project for later:

Autumn Turn Afghan Block

Materials

Yarn: 10ply / yarn weight #4 (Worsted), Scheepjes Stone Washed XL used in photographs.

Moonstone (841) YARN A
Smokey Quartz (842) YARN B
Coral (856) YARN C
Yellow Jasper (849) YARN D
Canada Jade (846) YARN E

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

Hook: US size H/8 (5 mm )

You will also need:

Gauge: 4dc = 3inch / 7.6cm

Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match then your finished item will be a different size.

Finished Size: 8 x 8 inches (20.3 x 20.3cm)

Stitch Guidance

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Half Treble Crochet (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.
Treble (tr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.
V-Stitch (Vst): (1tr, ch2, 1tr) in same st
Puff Stitch (PF): In this pattern the puff stitches should be worked as follows; Yarn over and insert your hook into the specified stitch/space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop. (Yarn over and insert your hook into the same stitch/space, yarn over again and pull up a long loop) repeat from ( …) twice more. times (9 loops on hook) Yarn over and pull through 8 loops on your hook, yarn over and pull through 2 loops on hook to close.
Spike double crochet (SPtr): The spike stitch is worked using the same steps as a treble crochet stitch, but instead of working into the current row where you are crocheting, you drop down and work it into a row or space below the current row. You always draw the yarn up so that the top of the stitch is still exactly where the top would be if this were a normal treble.
Double Treble (dtr): Yarn over hook (twice), insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (four loops on hook), Yarn over, pull yarn through two loops on hook (three loops remain on hook). Yarn over, pull yarn through two loops on hook (two loops remain on hook). Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops on hook.

Pattern Notes

The ch1 at the start of a rnd does not count as a st
The ch2 at the start of a rnd counts as a half treble st.
The ch3 at the start of a rnd counts as a treble st.

Working in the Front / Back Loop Only (FLO / BLO): If you hold your piece of crochet in front of you with the Vs of the stitch on top, the part of the V closest to you is the front loop. The part of the V farther away from you on the opposite side is the back loop. When a pattern asks you to crochet into the back loop or front loop only insert your hook into the relevant loop and crochet as instructed.

Pattern

Rnd 1: With Yarn A; ch4 and sl st to form a ring, Ch3, work 11 tr into the ring, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off A and weave in ends. (12sts)

Rnd 2: Join Yarn B with a sl st to the top of any st; Ch3, 1tr in the same st, working in BLO, 2tr into each st around, sl st to the top of the beginning ch to join. Fasten off B and weave in ends. (24sts)

Rnd 3: Join Yarn A with a sl st to the top of any st; Ch1, [ 1dc in 2 sts, then working in FLO of rnd 1, SPtr } repeat { … } around. Fasten off A and weave in ends. (36sts; 24 dc / 12 SPtr)

Rnd 4: Join Yarn C with a sl st to the top of any st; Ch2, 1htr in the next st, 2htr in the next [1 htr in the next 2sts, 2htr in the next ] repeat { … } around. Fasten off C and weave in ends. (48sts)

Rnd 5: Join Yarn D with a sl st to the top of any st; Ch5 (Counts as 1tr + 2ch), 1tr in the same st, miss st, PF in the next st, [miss st, V-St in the next st, miss st, PF in the next st, miss st] into each st around, sl st to the top of the 3rd ch of the beginning 5ch to join. (48sts; 12PF / 12 Vsts / 24ch2-sps)

Rnd 6: Starting from the join from the previous rnd, into the next ch2 sp along; ch3, 2tr in the same sp, ch2, 3tr in the same sp, sl st in the top of the next PF from the previous rnd, [ (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in the next ch2-sp, sl st in the top of the next PF from the previous rnd ] repeat [ …} around. Fasten off D and weave in ends. (12 petals)

Rnd 7: Join Yarn E with a sl st to the top of any sl st; Ch6 (counts as 1tr + 3ch), 1dc in the next ch2 sp (of the petal tip), ch3, [ 1tr in the next sl st, ch3, 1dc in the next ch3sp, ch3] repeat [ …} around, ending with a sl st to the 3rd ch of the beginning 6ch. Fasten off E and weave in ends. (24sts + 24 x ch3-sps)

Rnd 8: Join Yarn C with a sl st to the top of any dc st, Ch4 (Counts as 1dtr) 2dtr, ch3, 3dtr in the same st, [ 2tr in the next ch-sp, 1htr in the next st, 2htr in the next ch-sp, (1dc in the next st, 2dc in the next ch-sp) repeat ( …) once more, 1dc in the next st, 2htr in the next ch-sp, 1htr in the next st, 2tr in the next ch-sp, (3dtr, ch3, 3dtr) in the next st ] repeat [ …} twice more, 2tr in the next ch-sp, 1htr in the next st, 2htr in the next ch-sp, (1dc in the next st, 2dc in the next ch-sp) repeat ( …) once more, 1dc in the next st, 2htr in the next ch-sp, 1htr in the next st, 2tr in the next ch-sp, sl st to the top of the beginning ch to join. Fasten off C and weave in ends. (92sts + 4 x ch3-sps)

Rnd 9: Join B with a sl st to any ch3-sp corner, ch1, [ (1dc, ch2, 1dc) in the same sp, 1dc in each st across ] repeat [ …} around until end. Sl st to the top of the first st to join. Fasten off and weave in ends. (100sts + 4 x ch2-sps)

And that’s it! I hope you enjoyed your turn through the season.

BLOCKING

Your square may benefit from being blocked;

1. Completely soak your item in cold water then gently squeeze (without wringing it) out some of the excess water.

2. Using your tape measure and pins, carefully pin your item on your blocking board

3. Double check your measurements if necessary (i.e. check the height and width are correct)

4. Leave to dry completely over 24 hours and then unpin.

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

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7Jul2021

Free-bee Crochet Pattern | Bee-utiful Clutch Bag

Posted in Crochet, Free Patterns, Stitches by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hey folks, hope you are well in your part of the world. I’ve got a lovely free-bee for you to enjoy today! Allow me to introduce the Bee-utiful Clutch bag – a small bag with big textured personality!

The bag uses a stitch that I’ve used before; on the Bee Keeper block in the Stitch Story CAL. At the time I thought the stitch pattern was so effective with creating such a beautiful texture that knew I wanted to use it again.

Fast forward three years or so to when I came across some yellow Anchor Creativa Fino in my stash. The stitch idea reignited itself as I thought I would make the bee themed clutch bag idea I’d got rumbling around in my head.

Super simple to make and with many practical uses for a clutch bag or makeup bag; this pattern is perfect for beginners, as it only uses simple stitches. I used some bee fabric to line mine, to finish off the inside, but with this stitch pattern you could probably get away with not lining it if you aren’t a fan of sewing.

The following Bee-utiful Clutch Bag is free here on the blog or you can make a beeline for the pattern in your favourite pattern stores where you can pick up a PDF of the pattern for a nominal price (links below).

The pattern is available in both UK and US crochet terminology via the PDF download; the pattern below is written just in UK terms. But you can view a handy conversion chart here on the blog.

Bee-utiful Clutch Bag

MATERIALS

Yarn Required: 100g of Yellow

Yarn used: Anchor Creativa Fino used in photos;

(Shade: #00306)

About the yarn: 4ply / Fingering Weight; 125m per 50g ball, 100% Cotton

Hook Size: 3mm (US size D/3)

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

You will also need:

· A yarn needle

· Stitch Markers

· 2cm (0.8”) Button

· Optional: Facing and material for lining your bag

Finished Size: 19cm (7.4 inches) wide x 12cm (4.7 inches) high

Gauge: 6sts = 2.5cm (1”)

Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match the gauge stated then your finished item will be a different size.

STITCH GUIDANCE

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.

Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.

Double Crochet 2 together (dc2tog): Invisible double crochet decrease method: Invisible decreasing is a method of removing stitches to shape your fabric without gaps. Insert hook in the FRONT LOOP ONLY of the first stitch indicated and pull up a loop [two loops on hook], insert hook in the FRONT LOOP ONLY of the next st, pull up a loop [three loops on hook], yarn over, pull through three loops on hook; decrease made.

Half Treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in next st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.

PATTERN NOTES

Working in the Back Loop Only: If you hold your piece of crochet in front of you with the Vs of the stitch on top, the part of the V closest to you is the front loop. The part of the V farther away from you on the opposite side is the back loop. When a pattern asks you to crochet into the back loop, insert your hook into the relevant loop and crochet as instructed.

Note: The ch1 at the beginning of a row, count as a st

PATTERN

Main Body of Clutch:

Tip 1: If you struggle with twisting the row 1 try adding a row of dc as row 1, then work row 1 as row 2 and so on.

Tip 2: You might also find using stitch markers (or alternatives) to mark each row or where your last sl st, of each set of 5, helpful for this block.

Row 1 (RS): Ch 51, sl st into the 2nd ch from the hook and, sl st in the next 4sts * htr in the next 5 sts, sl st in the next 5 sts * repeat from * to * until the end of the row, turn (50 sts)

Note: From this point onwards work rows in the back loops only.

Row 2 (WS) : Ch1 *5 sl st in 5 htr then 5htr in 5 sl st * repeat from * to * until the end of the row, turn.

Row 3: (RS) Ch1, * 5 htr in 5 htr then 5 sl st in 5sl st * repeat from * to * until the end of the row, turn.

Row 4: (WS) Ch1, * 5 htr in 5 sl st then 5 sl st in 5 htr * repeat from * to * until the end of the row, turn.

Row 5: Ch1, 5 sl st in 5 htr then 5htr in 5 sl st * repeat from * to * until the end of the row, turn.

Row 6-52: Repeat rows 2-5 thirteen times

From this point onwards you will begin shaping the clutch flap;

Row 53: Ch1; dc2tog, 1dc in 46sts, dc2tog, turn. 48sts

Row 54: Ch1; dc2tog, 1dc in 44sts, dc2tog, turn. 46sts

Row 55: Ch1; dc2tog, 1dc in 42sts, dc2tog, turn. 44sts

Rows 57 – 71: Continue decreasing on each end until you have 14sts left.

Row 72: Ch1; dc2tog, 1dc in 3sts, ch4, miss 4sts, 1dc in 3sts, dc2tog, turn. 12sts

Row 73: Ch1; dc2tog, 1dc in 3sts, 1dc in each of the ch4 sts, 1dc in 3sts, dc2tog, turn. 10sts

Row 74: Ch1; dc2tog, 1dc in 6sts, dc2tog, turn, fasten off and weave in ends. 8sts

MAKING UP:

· Fold the bag in half, leaving the gap at the top open with the flap. and seam both sides together on the wrong side.

· Turn your bag right side round and add your button to the body of the bag opposite the open button hole

· Optional: create a lining for your bag

And that’s it! Get ready for taking it out and about and bee-witching all who see your bee-utiful new clutch bag.

If you hook up the Bee-utiful Clutch Bag I hope you’ll tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram using the hashtags #kcacouk and #proud2craft or #anchoryarns (so the folks at Anchor Yarns can see) or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!

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

29Mar2021

Free Crochet Pattern | Periwinkle the Puppy

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, For Adult, Free Patterns, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Happy Monday everyone. How are you? You okay? Is it paw-sible that you are looking for a new pattern today? I’ve got a brand new FREE pattern for you today in that I’ve collaboration with the lovely folks from Anchor Yarns. Put a zing into Spring with a new pretty pattern; allow me to introduce Periwinkle the Puppy!

Periwinkle the Puppy, crocheted dog amigurumi

Periwinkle the playful Puppy has been in the flower bed again! She’s always willing to help pitch in with some Spring gardening!

I always associate spring with flowers like daffodils, periwinkles, bluebells, crocuses and tulips, I love that they are a sign of us bidding winter goodbye with some lovely cheerful colour, and are a hopeful sign of brighter nights and warmer days to come.

We’ve officially started Spring 2021 here in the UK and designing this puppy felt like a lovely springtime project to work on. I had a blast making this puppy and I hope you will enjoy making it too.

🌼🐶 SAVE PATTERN ON RAVELRY HERE 🌼🐶

Made in the pretty pastels colours of the gorgeous Anchor Organic Cotton, I think this soft and cuddly puppy will quickly become your new best friend.

Anchor Organic Cotton is brand new yarn, and I was very excited to get to play with it. It’s 100% cotton 4-ply yarn which is unmercerised (meaning it has a matt finish) which I combined with a with a 3mm hook (approx. US size D/3), for this project. It comes in 20 beautiful shades (of which I used 6 for my puppy project), all inspired by nature and created with vegetable based dyes and for cotton it’s really nice and soft to work with.

What I also really liked about this yarn is how eco friendly it is, it’s a perfect yarn for conscious crafters who care about the environment as it’s ecological and social criteria, is backed up by independent certification (GOTS) of the entire textile supply chain.

Periwinkle the Puppy pattern uses simple stitches throughout making it a great amigurumi project for a beginner. You can pick it up as a free download available directly from the Anchor Yarns website where you can just download the pattern or register for an account. It doesn’t cost anything for an account, but by signing up you’ll gain access to loads of other free patterns by other talented designers too.

The pattern is written in UK crochet terminology with the usual explanation of stitches and techniques I’ve used in the design.

🐶🌼 FREE ANCHOR PATTERN DOWNLOAD 🌼🐶

Periwinkle the Puppy is a perfect gift for dog or animal lovers and the perfect size for lots of love!

And if you are looking for a few more FREE patterns, by me, using Anchor Yarns check out the following links:

If you hook up the Periwinkle the Puppy I hope you’ll tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram using the hashtags #kcacouk and #proud2craft or #anchoryarns (so the folks at Anchor Yarns can see too) or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!

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

23Dec2020

Free Crochet Pattern | Christmas Mushroom Tree Ornament

Posted in Crochet, Free Patterns, From the Stash, Holidays, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

I think I say it every year that one of my favourite things to make are Christmas decorations, and it’s become somewhat of a tradition that I create a new free tree ornament pattern for you to enjoy too. This year I’ve gone a bit non-traditional but still fun – it’s a Christmas Mushroom!

FAVOURITE PATTERN ON RAVELRY

Well actually it’s probably a Christmas toadstool but I’ve been singing Christmas mushroom to myself in my head so I’m afraid that title has stuck.

Apparently the red and white speckled fungi are known in German as gluckspilz which literally means ‘lucky mushroom’ which I really like and I think we can all do with a little luck to get past 2020 don’t you!

I’ve added a little twine to the top of my mushrooms so they can hang from the tree, but you could easily incorporate them into a wreath hanging on your door or even as part of a holiday table centrepiece.

FAVOURITE PATTERN ON LOVECRAFTS

They also don’t have to be just red, I experimented, because I got a little bit addicted to making mushrooms, with a few different colours – so you could match your fungi to your own decor.

Last year you may remember that I made a little Christmas bell tree decorations (FREE pattern here) with some Anchor Crafts Creativa Fino from my stash. I really like Creativa Fino to work with, it’s a nice firm mercerised cotton which I think works particularly well for amigurumi and ornaments like this one so that’s what I’ve used this year too.

FAVOURITE PATTERN ON ETSY

The following Christmas Mushroom Tree Ornament pattern is free here on the blog but it’s also available in my Ravelry store, LoveCrafts or Etsy store, where there is a nominal fee for a downloadable PDF pattern if you’d prefer.

The pattern is available in both UK and US crochet terminology via the PDF download; the pattern below is written just in UK terms.

Christmas Mushroom Tree Ornament

MATERIALS

Yarn:

Anchor Creativa Fino: 4ply; 125m per 50g ball; 100% Cotton

1 ball in #00258 (A) – Red
1 ball in #00926 (B) – Cream

Anchor Metallic Thread: Viscose (80%) and metallised polyester (20%)

1 ball in #00304 (C) – Metallic White

Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.

Hook: 3mm (US size D/3)

You will also need:

Stitch Marker
Scissors
Yarn needle
Small amount of toy stuffing
Length of twine for hanging loop

Gauge: 5dc = 2.5cm / 1 inch

Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match then your finished item will be a different size.

Finished Size: 9cm / 3.5 inches

ABBREVIATIONS: UK Terminology

st(s) stitch(es)
st sl slip stitch
ch(s) chain
dc double crochet
dc2tog double crochet two together
htr half treble

STITCH GUIDANCE:

Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
Double Crochet (dc): Insert hook in st indicated and draw up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, draw through both loops on hook.
Double Crochet (dc2tog): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), insert hook in next st, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through three loops on hook.
Half treble (htr): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated st and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook.

PATTERN NOTES

Magic ring: is also known as a Drawstring Ring or Magic Loop and is often used as a start for working amigurumi. If you are not familiar with this technique you could substitute with a ch2 and then work in the second ch from the hook.

Working in the round: This pattern is worked in the amigurumi style (unless specified), in a spiral without slip stitching or turning chains

Working in the Back or Front Loop Only (BLO / FLO): If you hold your piece of crochet in front of you with the Vs of the stitch on top, the part of the V closest to you is the front loop. The part of the V farther away from you on the opposite side is the back loop. When a pattern asks you to crochet into the back loop or front loop only insert your hook into the relevant loop and crochet as instructed.

Pattern:

Top of Mushroom

Rnd 1: With YARN A; working into a magic ring, 6dc. 6sts

Note: Do not pull magic ring too tight as you will thread some twine through the centre.

Rnd 2: [2dc] around. 12sts

Rnd 3: [1dc, 2dc] around. 18 sts

Rnd 4: Dc around.

Rnd 5: [1dc in next 2sts, 2dc] around. 24sts

Rnds 6-9: Dc around.

Rnd 10: [1dc in next 3sts, 2dc] around. 30sts

Fasten off YARN A with a sl st to the next st and weave in ends.
With YARN C embroider some spots on to your mushroom top
Create a hanging loop from twine and thread the loop through the centre of your magic ring with a knot to secure.

Underside of Mushroom

Rnd 11: Attach YARN B to the BLO of any st; [1dc in next 3sts, dc2tog] around. 24sts

Start to stuff, continue to stuff as you go.

Rnd 12: [1dc in next 2sts, dc2tog] around. 18sts

Rnd 13: [1dc, dc2tog] around. 12sts

Rnd 14: [dc2tog] to end. 6sts

Fasten off and use yarn tail to sew up the last 6sts

Mushroom Stalk

Rnd 1: With YARN A; working into a magic ring, 8dc. 8sts

Rnd 2: [2dc] around. 16sts

Rnds 3-5: Dc around.

Rnd 6: [1dc in next 2sts, dc2tog] around. 12sts

Start to stuff the mushroom stalk; continue to stuff as you go

Rnds 7-9: Dc around.

Rnd 10: [1dc in next 2sts, dc2tog] around. 9sts

Rnd 11: Dc around.

Rnd 12: BLO; Dc around.

Rnds 13-14: Dc around.

Fasten off with a sl st to the next st but leave a long yarn tail.

Rnd 15: Attach YARN C to the FLO; of rnd 12; ch2, 2htr in same st, 3htr in each st around until end, sl st to the beginning ch2 to join. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Stitch the mushroom stalk onto the bottom centre of the mushroom top.

And that’s it!

If you hook up a Christmas Mushroom Tree Ornament I hope you’ll maybe give it a ‘love’ on Ravelry, LoveCrafts or Etsy store by saving to your favourites, tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!

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

2Dec2020

Free Crochet Pattern | Anchor Angel Amigurumi

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, For Adult, Free Patterns, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Happy work in progress Wednesday everyone. How are you? You okay?

I wanted to share with you today something I’ve recently finished. In collaboration with the lovely folks from Anchor Yarns, I’ve got a brand new FREE angel pattern for you.

Please allow me to introduce the Anchor Angel Amigurumi which is available to download for FREE from the Anchor website (see link below).

I used Creativa Fino 4ply, with a 3mm hook (approx US size D/3), for this project. I’ve used Creativa Fino for several projects now and really enjoy working with it. If you are not familiar with the yarn it’s 100% twisted mercerised cotton which comes in 50g balls (125m) and is perfect for making crochet toys. I also combined it with some of Anchors metallic yarn for the halo and the wings, which just added that perfect bit of sparkle!

Close up of Anchor Creativa Fino mercerised cotton yarn

When I finished making the angel it was actually unseasonably bright and sunny! I wanted to create a bit of a hygge type of cosy season Christmas scene to have a photo shoot with. Then I remembered that I’d bought some awesome tiny LED fairy lights from Amazon. They worked just how I wanted them too when I added them to an old coffee jar, just adding a nice bit of twinkly light.

Crochet angel next to some twinkly lights in a Christmas scene

The Anchor Angel Amigurumi pattern uses simple stitches throughout making it a great amigurumi project for a beginner. You can pick it up as a free download available directly from the Anchor Yarns website where you can just download the pattern or register for an account. It doesn’t cost anything for an account, but by signing up you’ll gain access to loads of other free patterns by other talented designers too.

FREE ANCHOR PATTERN DOWNLOAD

The pattern is written in UK crochet terminology and I’ve linked it up on Ravelry too if you’d like to save it to your favourites on there (at the link below).

Apart from a beautiful tree topper I think she would make a great holiday gift or maybe even a table top decoration.

SAVE PATTERN ON RAVELRY HERE

Crochet angel amigurumi against a blue background

And if you are looking for a few more FREE patterns, by me, using Anchor Yarns check out the following links:

If you hook up the Anchor Angel Amigurmi I hope you’ll tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram using the hashtags #kcacouk and #proud2craft or #anchoryarns (so the folks at Anchor Yarns can see too) or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!

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