It’s free pattern Friday – woo hoo! And in collaboration with the lovely folks from Anchor Yarns I’ve got a brand new pillow pattern to offer you. Please allow me to introduce the Perfect Puff Pillow which is available to download for FREE from the Anchor website (see link below).
I wanted to create a classic contemporary looking pillow in a solid colour with lovely texture so that crafters could match it to their own decor – though you could totally mix and match the colours of the motifs to create something totally unique!
I used Creativa Fino 4ply for this project, which comes in a fabulous range of shades for beautifully coloured homeware. It’s 100% twisted cotton which is lovely and soft and has a silky feel – and it gives stitch definition to drool over!
I used a 3.25mm hook (US size D/3) to create the pillow which measures 35 x 50cm (14 x 20 inches) making it a perfect accent pillow size. I used a cushion inner from Amazon for my centre and a 30cm zip that I had in my craft cupboard – similar to this one.
This pattern uses simple stitches throughout making it a great project for a beginner – but it has enough interest for an intermediate crocheter. Motifs make great projects to work on in between other projects when you just want to work on something quick, and they’re small enough to to enjoy when you are out and about for a project on the go. The finished cushion also has a gorgeous texture that you just want to run your fingers over.
The Perfect Puff Pillow is 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 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).
It’s a simple modern pillow which I think would make the perfect addition to any bedroom, dorm room, or comfy couch. What colour would you make yours in?
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 Perfect Puff Pillow 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
As Coronavirus sweeps across the UK, many people have responded by putting rainbow pictures in their windows. The rainbows have come to represent “positivity, hope and togetherness” during the pandemic. Today’s free blanket pattern not only take inspiration from that but also in the simple joys that a rainbow brings any time you see one.
It’s been a while since I shared a free pattern for you here on the blog, and I wanted todays blanket to be something positive that came from the lockdown, something that you could enjoy making, and maybe look forward to gifting to others after lockdown is over.
During the pandemic I found myself looking for nice mindful patterns, where I could keep my hands busy and just lose myself in the stitches. Sometimes you just find a stitch pattern that you just enjoy making and for me that’s definitely the box stitch.
I think it might be known as other names, but to me it looks like rows of little boxes when put together.
Worked in double knit this lightweight blanket is easy to memorise making it a perfect pattern for relaxing hooky time! I made my blanket from some Scheepjes Colour Crafter that I’d got in my stash.
The following pattern is free here on the blog but it’s also available in my Ravelry, Etsy or LoveCrafts stores where there is a nominal fee for a downloadable 3 page PDF pattern free of advertisements if you’d prefer. The PDF download is available in UK or US crochet terminology.
Oh and if you enjoy making this box stitch blanket then you may also enjoy the ‘Don’t Box Me In’ blanket I designed for Dear Ewe which features the same stitch. You can pick up that free pattern over on the Dear Ewe blog.
Boxing Rainbows Blanket
MATERIALS Yarn: 8ply / yarn weight #3 ď‚· 100g / 300m White ď‚· 25g / 75m Red ď‚· 25g / 75m Orange ď‚· 25g / 75m Yellow ď‚· 25g / 75m Green ď‚· 25g / 75m Blue ď‚· 25g / 75m Indigo ď‚· 25g / 75m Violet ď‚· 25g / 75m Pink Scheepjes Colour Crafter in Weert (1001), Amsterdam (1010), Gent (2002), Leuven (2008), Terneuzen (1821), Knokke (2012), Brugge (2003), Drachten (1827), Luik (2006) used in photos. You will also need: ď‚· Scissors ď‚· A yarn needle
Hook: 4mm (US Size G/6) Gauge: 2 clusters= 3.5cm / 1.37” 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. Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different. Finished Size: 86cm (33.8”) long x 68cm (26.7”)
ABBREVIATIONS: UK TERMS st(s) stitch(es) sl st slip stitch ch(s) chain dc double crochet tr treble crochet RS right side
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 indi-cated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook. Treble Crochet (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. Cluster (Cl): Three treble crochets worked in a ch3-sp
PATTERN NOTES ď‚· Make the blanket bigger or smaller by making the beginning chain in a multiple of 3+5 (stitch counts in the pattern are for the blanket size specified on page 1) ď‚· A ch3 at the start of a row counts as a st
PATTERN Row 1: (RS) With Pink; ch43, 1tr in the 4th ch from hook, 1tr in each st along until end, turn. 41sts Row 2: Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of previous row, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. 14dc + 13 x ch3-sps Row 3: Ch3, (miss the next dc, 1Cl in the next ch3-sp) repeat across until the last st, 1tr in the last st, turn. 41sts / 13 clusters + 1tr at either end of row. Rows 4 – 5: Repeat rows 2 and 3. Fasten off Pink and weave in ends. Row 6: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 7 – 9: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 10: Attach Violet, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 11 – 15: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Indigo and weave in ends. Row 16: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 17 – 19: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 20: Attach Indigo, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 21 – 25: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Indigo and weave in ends. Row 26: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 27 – 29: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 30: Attach Blue, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 31 – 35: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Blue and weave in ends. Row 36: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 37 – 39: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 40: Attach Green, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 41 – 45: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Green and weave in ends. Row 46: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 47 – 49: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 50: Attach Yellow, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 51 – 55: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Yellow and weave in ends. Row 56: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 57 – 59: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 60: Attach Orange, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 61 – 65: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Orange and weave in ends. Row 66: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 67 – 69: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 70: Attach Red, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 71 – 75: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Red and weave in ends. You will now need to rotate your work to the right so you can continue working on the long edge of the RS of your work. Row 76: Attach White to the post of the 1tr of row 75, Ch3, 3tr in the first sp, then work a Cl in the tr post sp of each row along until the last tr last dc (of row 1), then work 4tr in the last sp, turn. 38 clusters + 2 x 1trs at the end of each row / 116sts Rows 77 – 78: Repeat alternate rows of 2 and 3 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 79: Attach Blue, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 80 – 84: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Blue and weave in ends. Row 85: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 86 – 88: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 89: Attach Indigo, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 90 – 94: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Indigo and weave in ends. Row 95: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 96 – 98: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 99: Attach Violet, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 100 – 104: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Violet and weave in ends. Row 105: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 106 – 108: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 109: Attach Pink, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 110 – 114: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Pink and weave in ends. You will now need to rotate your work to the right again so you can continue working on the other long edge of the RS of your work. Row 115: Attach White to the post of the 1tr of row 75, Ch3, 3tr in the first sp, then work a Cl in the tr post sp of each row along until the last tr last dc (of row 1), then work 4tr in the last sp, turn. 38 clusters + 2 x 1trs at the end of each row / 116sts Rows 116 – 117: Repeat alternate rows of 2 and 3 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 118: Attach Green, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 119 – 123: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Green and weave in ends. Row 124: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 125 – 127: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 128: Attach Yellow, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 129 – 133: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Yellow and weave in ends. Row 134: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 135 – 137: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 138: Attach Orange, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 139 – 143: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Orange and weave in ends. Row 144: Attach White, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 145 – 147: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off White and weave in ends. Row 148: Attach Red, in-between the first 2trs of previous row with a sl st. Ch1, (1dc in-between the first 2trs of row 1, ch3, miss 3sts, 1dc in-between the next 2trs of row 1) repeat across until end, turn. Rows 149 – 153: Repeat alternate rows of 3 and 2 for the pattern. Fasten off Red and weave in ends.
I’m delighted to say that I’ve got another FREE pattern lined up for you today in collaboration with the lovely folks from Anchor Yarns. I’ve created a sweet new baby blanket with their Baby Pure Cotton yarn.
So without further ado allow me to introduce the XOXO Baby Blanket which is available for FREE from the Anchor website (see link below).
Baby Pure Cotton yarn is 100% cotton which is combed and not mercerised. It’s available in 24 soft powdered shades but I just used shade 00402 which is a lovely muted mushroom colour.
The yarn is ideal for babies as it’s hypoallergenic and saliva resistant to be entirely safe for the new-born. It’s also delicate and soft so very kind and gentle for babies sensitive skin. It’s also suitable to machine wash up to 60°C which is great for a baby blanket.
I used a 3.5mm hook (US size E/4) to create a square baby blanket which measures 76cm x 76cm (30 x 30 inches) which is perfect for Perfect for sleeping, cuddling or as a stroller cover.
I wanted to create something in a single block neutral colour so that crafters could imagine re-creating it in their own favourite shades – though you could totally mix and match the colours of the motifs to create something totally unique!
This pattern uses simple stitches throughout and has a nice texture whilst still having enough stitches to create a warm blanket. I’m a big fan of the popcorn stitch as it just creates such a wonderful texture that you just want to run your fingers over!
The XOXO Baby Blanket is 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 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).
This blanket would be a great project for a beginner, or an intermediate crocheter. When you’re just learning to crochet, the thought of completing a whole blanket might seem impossible, let alone making an entire crochet blanket, but by working in smaller square motifs it breaks down the larger project into manageable chunks.
You could also easily make this blanket bigger by just increasing the number of square motifs you start with.
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 XOXO Baby Blanket 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!Â
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
Hey folks, hope you are all okay out there in the strange world in which we find ourselves at the moment! But ‘don’t worry, be hoppy!’ – I’ve got a brand new FREE pattern to share with you all today.
You can tell it’s nearly Easter when I’m making all things bunny themed! This is my third bunny themed pattern I’ve released so far this year!
What I love about this Bunny Rabbit, though you can’t really tell from the photograph, is that the dungarees are removable, there is even a little hole in the bottom for his tail to poke through. His pockets are totally functional too – perfect for stashing away a little carrot or two.
The pattern includes details on how you can make some of the Bunny Rabbit‘s favourite snacks!
For my little bunny I used Deramores Studio Baby Soft DK which I’d not used before but it’s sooooo nice! It’s lovely and soft, and has anti-piling technology too which I love. I’ll definitely be thinking of using it again in another project, it would make such a soft blanket for instance.
Deramores Studio Baby Soft DK comes in 19 different colours at the moment, and it’s not just all ‘baby’ pastels as the name ‘Baby Soft’ suggests either. There are a couple of bright colours in the mix – and I hope they’ll add some different colours in the future (it would be nice to see a red!)
The Bunny Rabbit design is available as either a single pattern, for FREE in my Designer Shop, or as a kit with everything you need (pattern, yarn, stuffing and eyes) to make the Bunny Rabbit.
If you were looking for more cute animal projects to hook up there are dogs, cats, donkey’s and horses all available in my Deramores Designer Shop
I think rabbit lovers everywhere are going to go hopping mad for this cute little bunny – so hop to it and pick up your free pattern today!Â
As always if you hook up the Bunny Rabbit I hope you’ll tag kcaco.uk and Deramores on Instagram or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!Â
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
It was a pleasure to be contacted, at the end of last year, by the lovely folks at Anchor Yarns to see if I wanted to try out some of their new Freccia yarn in some brand new colours.
Using five different shades of Freccia yarn I’ve put together a fun fashion scarf which is perfect for spring and summer accessorising. Allow me to introduce the Freccia Flor Scarf which is available for FREE from the Anchor website (see link below).
Freccia yarn is a high quality twisted mercerised cotton which is a structured yet flexible yarn that’s available in a range of bright colours. It comes in 6 different thread thicknesses, the thinnest thickness is NÂş 20 and the thickest is NÂş 6, but it was the 3ply (No. 6) that I got to play with in the 50g balls.
The yarn is ideal for fashion wear because it’s fine but strong, it can be washed with hot water in the washing machine up to 95ÂşC and you can potentially iron it at a high temperature.
I used a 3mm hook ( roughly equivalent to a US size D3) to create this scarf which measures 160cm long x 15cm wide (63 inches long x 6 inches wide). The perfect length for a carefree look wrapped around your neck with the loose beaded flowery ends hanging down in front.
I wanted to create something that was pretty and feminine and with it’s simple crochet pattern, for the main body of the scarf, it’s a very mindful project which I enjoyed making.
Finally I encorporated beads onto the fringe to add weight to each end of the scarf. The scarf really benefits from having the extra substance to the fringe to allow gravity to help keep it in perfect shape and drape – and who can resist an extra bit of bling (not me)!
I’m not going to lie it does take a while to add the beads, but it’s so worth it in the end, it adds a wonderfully tactile finish; it’s so lovely to run your fingers through the fringing when you’re wearing the scarf!
Scarves, like the Freccia Flor, are the perfect way to introduce colour to an otherwise plain outfit and you could repeat the pattern in a variety of different colours – I think a grey main colour and an ombre effect of pink flowers would look particularly nice for instance.
The Freccia Flor Scarf is a free download available directly from the Anchor Crafts website here 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 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).
This pattern is perfect for beginners, as it only uses simple stitches, or for anyone that just wants a fancy scarf to add to their accessories.
If you hook up the Freccia Flor Scarf I hope you’ll tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram using the hashtags #kcacouk or #frecciaflor 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
If you just happened to be watching Create and Craft TV this weekend you may have just seen (and possibly shared my squeals) at some brand new patterns that I’ve designed for Deramores. The first two new projects for your hook are amigurumi farm yard pals Hettie the Horse and Dougie the Donkey.
Hettie loves quiet trots in the park, hay on a Sunday and having her long silky mane combed through. Whilst Dougie is an intelligent social animal with a strong need for companionship and a natural curiosity!
It was extremely exciting to see the launch – I mean it’s not everyday that you get to see something you’ve crocheted appear on TV is it!
I really enjoyed creating these two farmyard friends! They are made from Deramores Studio DK, which is a pleasure to work with, and they both came together quite nicely once I started crocheting them up.
I’ve designed this patterns with both beginners and intermediate crocheters in mind. I think they are perfect for beginners as they are not complex shapes or instructions – and there is enough interest that more experienced crocheters can enjoy too.
Excitingly both of these animals come on a single pattern which is available for FREE in my Designer Shop where you can pick up just the pattern, or the yarn kit (including pattern, yarn, stuffing and eyes) to make both animals.
And if you are interested in watching future Deramores episodes on TV you can find them every two weeks on a Sunday (so the next one will be 26 Jan) Create and Craft TV on the following channels and devices:
Sky 683
Freeview 23
Virgin 748
Freesat 813
Apple TV
Amazon Fire
They also add some of the recent episodes on the Deramores TV page on their website – here.
I hope you like all the new additions to the Dera-animal family! I’m happy to say I’m in development of some more animals, so watch this space! What animals would you love to see appear? More dog breeds? Other creatures?
As always if you hook up either the Dera-Horse or Dera-Donkey I hope you’ll tag kcaco.uk and Deramores on Instagram or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
I think I’ve said before that one of my favourite things to crochet and make are Christmas decorations. I love that they become part of the fabric of your Christmas and bring back memories as they are brought out again year after year. So I decided to make another one this year that I’d like to share with you – it’s for a Little Christmas Bell ornament for your tree.
Now you can add the perfect finishing touch to your Christmas tree this festive season with a little handmade bell decoration that really rings! With easy simple steps this mini bell decoration is a fun and fast gift to make or to keep for your own tree.
Last year you may remember that I made some mini tapestry tree decorations (FREE pattern here) with some Creativa Fino yarn kindly gifted from Anchor Crafts. 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.
The following Little Christmas Bell Tree Ornament pattern is free here on the blog but it’s also available in my Ravelry store where there is a nominal fee for a downloadable 3 page PDF pattern free of advertisements if you’d prefer.
The pattern is available in both UK and US crochet terminology on Ravelry though the pattern below is written with both terminology combined for ease.
Yarn: 9g / 25m of Anchor Creativa Fino Gold or Silver Coloured 4ply Cotton 0.85g / 2.5m of Anchor Gold or Silver Metallic Thread Small amounts of Anchor Creativa Fino Red and Green 4ply Cotton
Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.
Hook: 2.75mm (US size D/3)
You will also need:
1 x 10mm gold or silver jingle bell
Stitch Marker
Scissors
Yarn needle
Gauge: 6dc = 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: 8cm / 3.14inches
ABBREVIATIONS:
st(s) stitch(es)
st sl slip stitch
ch(s) chain
dc/sc UK double crochet / US single crochet
rev.dc/sc Reverse UK double crochet / US single crochet
htr/hdc UK half treble / US half double crochet
tr/dc UK treble / US double crochet
STITCH GUIDANCE:
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
UK Double Crochet/US Single Crochet (dc/sc): Insert hook in st indicated and draw up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, draw through both loops on hook.
UK half treble / US half double crochet (htr/hdc): 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.
UK treble / US double crochet (tr/dc): 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.
PATTERN NOTES
Using a stitch marker: The bell is worked in the usual amigurumi style worked without joining in continuous rnds – place the stitch marker in the top of the first st to mark start of rnd.
Reverse Single Crochet (rev.dc/sc): A reverse single crochet stitch is worked the same as a regular single crochet — except in reverse. Instead of working from right to left, you work from left to right. Insert hook, from front to back, in the next st to the right and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Pattern:
Bell:
Rnd 1: Make a magic ring, work 6dc/sc into ring. 6sts
Rnd 2: [2dc/sc] to end. 12 sts
Rnd 3: [1dc/sc, 2dc/sc] to end. 18 sts
Rnd 4: [1dc/sc in the next 2sts, 2dc/sc] to end. 24sts
Rnd 5: [1dc/sc in the next 3sts, 2dc/sc] to end. 30sts
Rnds 6-13: 1dc/sc in each st around
Rnd 14: [1dc/sc in the next 4sts, 2dc/sc] to end. 36sts
Rnd 15: 1dc/sc in each st around
Rnd 16: [1dc/sc in the next 5sts, 2dc/sc] to end. 42sts
Rnd 17: 1dc/sc in each st around. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Rnd 18: AttachMetallic Gold, rev.dc/sc in each st around. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Bell Handle:
Ch8, sl st to form a ring; sl st in each ch round until fasten off but leave a yarn tail for attaching to the centre top of the bell..
Bell Clanger:
Ch17, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sl st in each st along until end. Use one yarn tail to attach the bell to the end of the strip just made, thread the other yarn tail through the centre of the strip and use it to attach to the inner bell centre.
Holly (make 2):
Ch7, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, * 1dc/sc in next st, 1tr/dc in the next, ch2, sl st to post of tr/dc * sl st in the next st, repeat from * to * once, sl st into first ch, ch2, sl st to first ch again, then working on other side of beginning ch; ch3, sl st to 2nd ch from hook, sl st to next st, 1dc/sc in next st, 1tr/dc in the next, fasten off but leave long yarn tail
Berries (make 2):
Ch6, 1dc/sc in 2nd ch from hook, htr/hdc in the next st, 1tr/dc in next, 1htr/hdc in the next, 1dc/sc in the next st, sl st to the first st to join, leave long yarn tail to attach.
To finish: Make a short hanging loop with metallic yarn around the bell handle.
And that’s it!
If you hook up a Little Christmas Bell Tree ornament I hope you’ll maybe give it a ‘love’ on Ravelry 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
You may remember back in June that I had fun creating a new free 12″ (30cm) crocheted block called Encompass Me. I do love to create these afghan components as they have potential to be so many things! I’m now going to raise my own stakes by introducing a brand NEW free block for you.
Allow me to introduce to you the Poppin’ Spades Afghan Square! Inspired by a poker game the Poppin’ Square Afghan Square combines a fun combination of stitches to create a pleasing textured effect that I ‘wager’ any card player will love!
This is a great block to have up one’s sleeve to add as a component block to create a multi-square afghan or used as a pretty pot holder or cushion cover.
You could either follow suit and use colours similar to mine, which I felt fitted my theme, or you could shuffle your colours and see what top trumps you can come up with!
The following Poppin’ Spades Block pattern is free here on the blog but it’s also available in my Ravelry store where there is a nominal fee for a downloadable 3 page PDF pattern free of advertisements if you’d prefer.
The pattern is available in both UK and US crochet terminology on Ravelry though the pattern below is written with both terminology combined for ease.
Pattern works best with four colors – referred to in this pattern as:
YARN A Dark Grey 45g / 68m YARN B Yellow 15g / 23m YARN C Light Grey 20g / 30m YARN D White 15g / 23m
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:
Scissors
Yarn needle
Gauge: 8dc= 2 inches (5.08cm)
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: 12 x 12 inches (30 x 30 cm)
ABBREVIATIONS:
st(s) stitch(es)Â Â Â
st  sl             slip stitch   Â
ch(s) chain
tr/dc           UK treble / US double crochet
FPtr/FPdc      UK Front Post treble / US Front Post Double Crochet
dtr/tr               UK double treble / US treble
PC Popcorn Stitch
STITCH GUIDANCE:
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
UK treble / US double crochet (tr/dc): 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.
UKFront Post treble /Front Post Double Crochet (FPtr/FPdc): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around post of indicated stitch below (your hook should now be positioned horizontally in front 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.
UK Double Treble / US Treble (dtr/tr): 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.
Popcorn Stitch (PC): Work 5dc in indicated st, remove hook completely, insert hook in 1st dc (1st dc of the 5), insert hook in loop that you just removed your hook from (5th dc of the 5), yarn over and pull through both loops on hook.
PATTERN NOTES
Changing Colour: When changing to a different colour, pull the new colour through the last two loops of the previous st to complete that st. Continue in the new colour, following the pattern. Change colours in this manner, whenever indicated on the pattern.
When changing to and from a colour carry the unused coloured yarn along the wrong side of the work loosely so that the work does not gather. Crochet over the unused colour as they are carried along; this will hide the strands of yarn invisibly and eliminate long unused strands carried across the back of the work.
Pattern:
· Ch3 at the start of any rnd counts as a st.
· All ch’s are included in the st count.
Rnd 1: With A, ch5, sl st to form a ring, [ch3, 3tr/dc, ch3, sl st to ring] repeat three times. Fasten off A and weave in ends. 4 petals
Rnd 2: With B, sl st in-between any of the petals from rnd 1. Ch6 (counts as 1tr/dc + 3ch), 1tr/dc in-between the same petal, then work [ch3, 1tr/dc, ch3, 1tr/dc, in-between the next petal] repeat three times, sl st to the 3rd ch of the beginning ch6 to join. 8sts + 4 x ch-3sps
Push the petals forward from behind the ch3-sps.
Rnd 3: Sl st to the nearest ch3-sp. Ch3, 1tr/dc in the same sp, [3tr/dc in the next ch3-sp, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the next ch3-sp], repeat three times, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off B and weave in ends. 36sts / 9sts each side
Rnd 4: With C, sl st in any ch2 corner sp; Ch3, 1tr/dc in the same sp, [1tr/dc in the next 7sts, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch2-sp] repeat three times, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. 52sts / 13sts each side
Rnd 5: Ch3, [cc to A, 1FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to C, 1tr in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr into the top of the central tr/dc of the petal of rnd 1, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next st, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, 1tr/dc in the next st] repeat twice, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr into the top of the central tr of the petal of rnd 1, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next st, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off A / C and weave in ends. 68sts / 17sts each side
Rnd 6: With D, sl st in any ch2 corner sp; ch3, 1tr/dc in the same sp, [1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to D, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to D, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to D, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, 1tr/dc in the next 4sts] repeat twice, [cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to D, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to D, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to A, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to D, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, (2tr/dc, ch2) in the ch-2 sp, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off A / D and weave in ends. 84sts / 21sts each side
Rnd 7: With A, sl st in any ch2 corner sp; ch3, 1tr/dc in the same sp, [1tr/dc in the next st, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to A, 1tr/dc in the next 7sts, cc to A, 1 PC in the next st, cc to A, 1tr/dc in the next 7sts, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to A, 1tr/dc in the next st, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, 1tr/dc in the next st] repeat twice, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to A, 1tr/dc in the next 7sts, cc to A, 1 PC in the next st, cc to A, 1tr/dc in the next 7sts, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to A, 1tr/dc in the next st, (2tr/dc, ch2) in the ch-2 sp, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off A / B and weave in ends. 100sts / 25sts each side
Rnd 8: With C, sl st in any ch2 corner sp; ch3, 1tr/dc in the same sp, [1tr/dc in the next 3sts, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 15sts, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts] repeat twice, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in the next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 15sts, cc to B, 1 FPdtr/FPtr in next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 3sts, (2tr/dc, ch2,) in the ch-2 sp, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off C / B and weave in ends. 116sts
Rnd 9: Ch3, 1tr/dc in the same st, 1tr/dc in the next 5sts, [cc to D, PC in the next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 15sts, cc to D, PC in next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 5sts, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, 1tr/dc in the next 5sts]Â repeat twice, cc to D, PC in the next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 15sts, cc to D, PC in next st, cc to C, 1tr/dc in the next 5sts, (2tr/dc, ch2, 2tr/dc) in the ch-2 sp, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off C / D and weave in ends. 132sts / 33 sts each side
Rnd 10: With A, sl st in any ch2 corner sp; ch3, 1tr/dc in the same sp, [1 tr/dc in the next 31sts, 2tr/dc , ch2, 2tr/dc ) in the ch-2 sp] repeat three times, sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. 148sts / 37sts each side
Rnd 11: Ch3, 1tr/dc in the next 34sts, [(2tr/dc , ch2, 2tr/dc ), 1tr/dc in the next 35sts] repeat three times, (2tr/dc , ch2, 2tr/dc ), sl st to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. Fasten off and weave in ends. 164sts / 41sts each side
Owls are probably amongst the most liked birds ever, and chances are even if you aren’t an owl lover yourself, you’ll know at least one person that is.
I think that owl’s are very beautiful creatures and I’m delighted to say that I recently teamed up with the lovely people over at Anchor Yarns to create a new free amigurumi owl pattern just for you!
The owl is made from seven different shades of Anchor Creativa Fino 100% cotton yarn which is made from natural fibres and has a soft and silky touch to it.
If you’ve not heard of the yarn before it’s great for amigurumi’s, fashion garments or accessories. It’s made up of four strands of mercerised cotton twisted together which give it a lovely light sheen and comes in 73 solid colours in 50g ball size.
You may remember I used it previously for some tapestry crochet Christmas ornaments (free pattern here) so it was fun to use it in a bigger project.
It’s lovely and smooth on the hands and fingers to crochet with, and I used a 2.75mm ( roughly equivalent to a US size C/2) hook to create this cute little owl who measures in at 15cm / 6 inches high.
The Anchor amigurumi owl is a free download available directly from the Anchor Crafts website here 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 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).
If you hook up the little owl amigurumi I hope you’ll tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram using the hashtag #anchorowl and #anchorcrafts (so anchor yarns can see) or share your projects in my Facebook group as I love to see your finished work!Â
Until next time folks! Happy hooking and keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
The lovely people over at Anchor Yarns were very kind enough recently to send me out some of their new Baby Pure Cotton yarn to play with.
Anchor Baby Pure Cotton is made from 100 % cotton, natural, combed and not mercerised (so matte not shiny) and it’s extremely soft on the hands to work with. It’s available in 24 colours which range from a soft muted powdered look or your more traditional pastel shades.
I’d say it’s totally suitable for modern fashion garments, home decor projects and amigurumi as well as quick and easy projects for baby. And it’s hypoallergenic and saliva resistant (love this) to be entirely safe for a new-born.
So I had a play with the yarn, and as it’s Granny Square Day tomorrow, it seemed only appropriate that I create a new free pattern for you all to enjoy! Allow me to introduce to you the Sherbet Star Granny Square.
Multi-colour granny squares are a great way to use up small amounts of yarn. A collection of these squares put together would look great as a cushion or blanket and you can be as adventurous as you like with your colours! Can’t wait to see what you come up with.
The Sherbert Star Granny Square pattern is free here on the blog but it’s also available in my Ravelry store where there is a nominal fee for a downloadable 2 page PDF pattern free of advertisements if you’d prefer.
The pattern is available in both UK and US crochet terminology on Ravelry though the pattern below is written with both terminology combined for ease.
Pattern will work in other hooks and yarns though finished size will be different.
Hook: 3 mm (US size D/3)
ABBREVIATIONS:
st(s) stitch(es)
st sl slip stitch
ch(s) chain
dc/sc UK double crochet / US single crochet
htr/hdc UK half treble / US half double crochet
tr/dc UK treble / US double crochet
dtr/tr UK double treble / US treble
STITCH GUIDANCE:
Slip Stitch (sl st): Insert hook in st indicated, yarn over and draw through all loops.
UK double crochet / US single crochet (dc/sc): Insert hook in st indicated and pull up a loop (two loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
UK half treble / US half double crochet (htr/hdc): 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.
UK treble / US double crochet (tr/dc): 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.
UKTreble 3 together / US double crochet 3 together (tr/dc3tog): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated stitch, pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over insert in next st, pull up a loop, (four loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, (three loops on hook), yarn over insert in next st, yarn over pull up a loop, (five loops on hook), yarn over, pull through two loops, (four loops on hook), yarn over pull through all four loops left on hook.
UK Treble 4 together / US double crochet 4 together (tr/dc4tog): Yarn over, insert hook in indicated stitch, pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, * pull through two loops, yarn over insert in next st, pull up a loop * repeat from * to * three times, yarn over pull through all five loops on hook.
PATTERN NOTES
The Pattern works best using four colours per square; three inner colours and an outside joining colour. Use the same colour as rnd 4 for rnd 6 to bring the colours of your squares together.
Pattern:
Rnd 1: With YARN A; ch8, sl st to form a ring; 4ch, 23dtr/tr into the ring, sl st top of the beginning 4ch to join. 24sts
Rnd 2: Ch1, 1dc/sc in the same st as the beginning ch1, * ch4, miss st, 1dc/sc in the next st * repeat from * to * until last ch4, sl st to the top of the first st to join. Fasten off YARN A and weave in ends. 12sts / 12 x 4ch-sp.
Rnd 3: With YARN B; Sl st to any ch4 loop, ch3, tr/dc3tog in same ch4-sp (counts as first tr/dc4tog), ch4, * tr/dc4tog in the next ch4-sp, ch4 * repeat from * to * until end, sl st to the top of the first st to join. Fasten off YARN B and weave in ends. 12sts / 12 x 4ch-sp.
Rnd 4: With YARN C; Sl st to the top of any tr/dc4tog of rnd 3; [Ch3, 2tr/dc, ch3. 3tr/dc], * 3htr/hdc in the next three ch4-sps, [3tr/dc, ch3. 3tr/dc] in the top of the next tr/dc4tog of rnd 3 * repeat from * to * twice more, 3htr/hdc in the next three ch4-sps, sl st to the top of the first st to join. Fasten off YARN C and weave in ends. 60sts / 4 x 3ch-sp.
Rnd 5: With YARN D; Sl st to any ch3-sp of rnd 4; [Ch3, 2tr/dc, ch3. 3tr/dc], * 3tr/dc in the next four spaces (between htr/hdc’s of rnd 4), [3tr/dc, ch3. 3tr/dc] in the top of the next tr/dc4tog of rnd 3 * repeat from * to * twice more, 3tr/dc in the next four spaces, sl st to the top of the first st to join. Fasten off YARN D and weave in ends. 60sts / 4 x 3ch-sp.
Rnd 6: With YARN C; Sl st to any missed st of rnd 1, * ch4, sl st to the top of the tr/dc4tog of rnd 3, ch4, miss next empty st of rnd 1, 1dc/sc in the next st * repeat from * to * in each st around until end. Fasten off YARN C and weave in ends.
Fasten off and weave in all ends.
And that’s it!
If you hook up the Sherbet Star Granny Square I hope you’ll tag @kcaco.uk on Instagram using the hashtag #SHERBERTSTARGRANNY 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
