If you’re anything like me, you can never resist hearing about something new in the crochet world – and I have some exciting news for you! There’s a brand-new magazine on the shelves called Crochet Made Simple, and I think you’re going to love it.
This budget-friendly publication comes from the same creative team behind Crochet Now,Your Crochet and Knitting and Crochet Society, so you know it’s going to be packed with inspiration. Each issue is brimming with loads of different patterns, covering everything from cosy garments and stylish accessories to snuggly blankets and cute toys.
One of my favourite things about Crochet Made Simple is that it brings back some fantastic patterns from their archives – perfect for those of us who may have missed them the first time around. And here’s the part I’m most excited about: my own pattern, Ghoulie the Ghost, will be featured in the next issue! If you didn’t get a chance to make him before, now’s your moment to bring this cute and and spooky cushion to life.
For Ghoulie I used some Yarnsmiths Create Super Chunky, which was a new yarn to me. It’s a very squishy super chunky weight yarn that’s made from 100% Acrylic in 100g (80m) balls which helps make Ghoulie ‘hauntingly’ cute and ‘boo-tifully’ soft!
Standing at 70cm /27.5 inches tall the only other things you will need for Ghoulie are;
With plenty of seasonal projects to inspire you, Crochet Made Simple is definitely worth picking up. No matter what your skill level, there’s something inside for you to hook up and enjoy. Issue 3 of Crochet Made Simple is on sale now, so keep an eye out next time you’re browsing the magazine rack – and happy crocheting!
I’d love to see your versions of the Ghoulie the Ghost. Don’t forget to tag me on social media, @kcaco.uk so I can see all your beautiful creations!
Until next time folks! Happy hooking, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
P.S. Make sure you’re subscribed to the blog (below) and/or my mailing list to stay updated on new blog posts, pattern releases, and exclusive discounts!
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.
Hello my lovelies! If you loved the charm of Sugarplum Unicorn, you’re in for another treat with her friend, Sugarplum Beary! This huggable little bear is here to add even more magic and warmth to your winter crochet line-up. Featured in Crochet Now magazine issue 114, the Sugarplum Beary is ready to be the next addition to your seasonal projects.
For the Sugarplum Beary I used some of my favourite Ricorumi DK yarn which, if you’re not familiar with it, is a 100% cotton yarn that comes in 25g (57.5m) balls. It’s one of my absolute favourites! With 80 solid shades to choose from, it’s perfect for amigurumi, offering a fantastic range of colours.
For her colour scheme it of course was inspired by sugarplum tones so lots of purples, pinks and magenta and of course a lovely bit of sparkle!
I combined this with some Ricorumi Twinkly Twinkly which is a new yarn that I was excited to try. It’s like Ricorumi but with a lovely bit of metallic thread running through it – perfect for my little magical fairy bear. The only other things you will need for this project are;
One of the best things about Sugarplum Beary is her versatility. She’s the perfect size for adding a cosy touch to your mantelpiece or shelves, making her a charming addition to your holiday setup. She’s designed to be approachable for a wide range of crochet skill levels, so whether you’re a crochet newbie or a seasoned pro, this project is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit.
If you’re eager to get started on the Sugarplum Beary, you’ll find the full pattern in Issue 114 of Crochet Now. which is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftworld.com.
If you’re as excited as I am to bring Sugarplum Beary to life, don’t forget to share your creations! Use #KCACOUK and #SugarplumBeary to show off your work, and tag me so I can see all your adorable bears spreading festive joy. You can tag 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, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx
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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.
Hello, my lovelies! If you’re in the mood for some enchanting crochet fun, then you’re in for a treat with Issue 47 of Your Crochet and Knitting magazine! Let me introduce you to Sugarplum Unicorn – a sweet, sparkly, and oh-so-magical crochet project that’s perfect for bringing a touch of whimsy to your world. Whether you’re crafting for a little one or simply indulging in some feel-good crochet time, this unicorn is sure to sprinkle a bit of fairy dust on your hook.
Unicorns never go out of style, do they? And Sugarplum is here to prove it! With her vibrant sparkly mane and soft hues, she’s a must-have addition to any crochet collection. Inspired by dreams of sugarplum fairies and whimsical adventures, this unicorn combines sweetness and elegance in one adorable plushie.
The Sugarplum Unicorn pattern is a fantastic choice for beginners, as it uses only simple stitches like double crochet (US single crochet), along with basic increases and decreases. If you’re just starting out or looking for a relaxing amigurumi project, this unicorn might be perfect for you. The instructions are easy to follow, and there’s no need for advanced techniques—just a bit of patience and some basic crochet knowledge. You’ll find that working through this pattern not only helps you practice your skills but also gives you a sense of accomplishment as your little unicorn takes shape.
Your Crochet and Knitting magazine comes complete with an exclusive 3.75mm crochet hook, 3.75mm knitting needles, and the 6 balls of DK yarn you need to make the Sugarplum Unicorn. Whether you’re planning to gift her as a Christmas present or add her to your seasonal décor, this project is sure to be a hit. Issue 47 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftworld.com.
Once you’ve finished your very own Sugarplum Unicorn, I’d love to see how she turned out! Be sure to tag me on Instagram or use the hashtag #KCACOUK on instagram to share your work with fellow crocheters. I love seeing the different variations and personal touches everyone brings to their projects. You can also share on other social media platforms facebook, X (twitter or as a project on Ravelry.
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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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.
Hello lovelies! As Halloween draws closer, it’s the perfect time to add a bit of playful charm to your seasonal décor. Enter the Jaunty Jack o’ Lantern, a free pattern crochet creation that’s not only fun to make but is perfect to add a dose of spooky whimsy to your space.
Pin this project for later:
The tradition of carving jack-o’-lanterns dates back centuries, with its roots in Ireland. People used to carve scary faces into turnips and potatoes to ward off evil spirits, particularly a wandering soul named Stingy Jack. When Irish immigrants came to America, they found pumpkins more plentiful and much easier to carve. Thus, the iconic jack-o’-lantern we know today was born! From spooky grins to playful expressions, this tradition has become a Halloween staple, with every home sporting its own glowing, carved masterpiece.
Made with Ricorumi DK, this adorable pumpkin is full of personality, whether you’re decorating for a big Halloween party or just adding a festive touch to your home. I love Ricorumi DK yarn, which, if you’re not familiar with it, is a 100% cotton yarn that comes in 25g [57.5m] balls. It’s definitely a firm favourite with me. It’s perfect for amigurumi as it’s available in 80 solid shades there’s so much to chose from!
Inspired by this timeless tradition, the Jaunty Jack o’ Lantern is a delightful crochet version, perfect for adding some handmade charm to your Halloween setup. His cheeky grin and playful personality bring the fun, while the bright and durable cotton yarn makes him a long-lasting part of your seasonal décor. Whether you’re popping him on your mantel, adding him to a centrepiece, or letting him guard the candy bowl, Jaunty Jack will be a cheerful reminder of Halloween’s rich folklore.
Jaunty Jack o’Lantern can be accessed for free at the pattern below or you can buy it as an ad-free PDF using the links below (handy 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).
glue gun (optional) or black sewing thread and a needle
Gauge: 5dc = 2.5cm / 1 inches
Obtaining the correct gauge is not critical to this project but if your gauge does not match mine then the finished headband might turn out differently.
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.
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 indication 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.
Back Loop Only (BLO): Work in the back loop of the stitch as indicated
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: Most of the sections of this pattern are worked in the amigurumi style without joining in continuous rounds. Place the stitch marker in the top of the first st to mark the start of each round.
PATTERN: PUMPKIN BODY
Rnd 1: With YARN A; working in a magic ring, 6 dc. 6sts
Rnd 2: (2 dc in each st) 6 times.12sts
Rnd 3: (1 dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times.18sts
Rnd 4: (2 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 24sts
Rnd 5: (3 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 30sts
Rnd 6: (4 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 36sts
Rnd 7: (5 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 42sts
Rnd 8: (6 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 48sts
Rnd 9: (7 dc, 2 dc in each st) 6 times. 54sts
Rnd 10: 4 dc, 2 dc in next st, (8 dc, 2 dc in next st) 5 times until last 4 sts, 4 dc. 60sts
Rnd 11: (9 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 66sts
Rnd 12: 5 dc, 2 dc in next st (10 dc, 2 dc in next st) 5 times until last 5 sts, 5 dc. 72sts
Rnd 13: (11 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 78sts
Rnd 14: 6 dc, 2 dc in next st (12 dc, 2 dc in next st) 5 times until last 6 sts, 6 dc. 84sts
Rnd 15: (13 dc, 2 dc in next st) 6 times. 90sts
Rnd 16: 7 dc, 2 dc in next st, (14 dc, 2 dc in next st) 5 times until last 7 sts, 7 dc. 96sts
Rnd 17: (15 dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times. 102sts
Rnd 18: 8 dc, 2 dc in next st (16 dc, 2dc in next st) 5 times until last 8 sts, 8 dc. 108sts
Rnd 19 – 43: dc around
Start to stuff, continue to stuff as you go
Rnd 44: (16 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 102sts
Rnd 45: (15 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 96sts
Rnd 46: (14 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 90sts
Rnd 47: (13 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 84sts
Rnd 48: (12 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 78sts
Rnd 49: (11 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 72sts
Rnd 50: (10 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 66sts
Rnd 51: (9 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 60sts
Rnd 52: (8 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 54sts
Rnd 53: (7 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 48sts
Rnd 54: (6 dc, dc2tog) 6 times 42sts
Rnd 55: (5 dc, dc2tog) 6 times 36sts
Rnd 56: (4 dc, dc2tog) 6 times 30sts Start to stuff, continue as you go
Rnd 57: (3 dc, dc2tog) 6 times. 24sts
Rnd 58: (2dc, dc2tog) 6 times 18sts
Rnd 59: (1 dc, dc2tog) 6 times 12sts
Rnd 60: (dc2tog). 6sts
Fasten off and use the yarn tail to sew up the remaining sts
PUMPKIN BOTTOM
Rnd 1: With YARN A; working in a magic ring. 6 dc. 6sts
Rnd 2: (2 dc in each st) 6 times.12sts
Rnd 3: (1 dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times.18sts
Fasten off and leave a long tail
PUMPKIN STALK
Rnd 1: With YARN B; working in a magic ring, 6 dc. 6sts
Rnd 2: (2 dc in each st) 6 times.12sts
Rnd 3: (1 dc, 2dc in next st) 6 times.18sts
Rnd 4: BLO; dc around
Rnds 5 – 10: dc around
Rnd 11: (Dc2tog) six times, (2dc) six times. 18sts
Rnds 12 – 14: dc around
Rnd 15: (Dc2tog) six times, (2dc) six times. 18sts
Rnds 16 – 18: dc around
Rnd 19: (Dc2tog) six times, (2dc) six times. 18sts
Rnds 21: dc around
Fasten off and leave a long yarn tail.
Stuff the stalk.
PUMPKIN TENDRILS
Make 2.
Ch25, 3dc in the second ch from hook and in each ch along until end. Fasten off but leave a long yarn tail.
FINISHING
Take the length of yarn tail, and wrap your yarn around your pumpkin twice; taking it through the centre of the pumpkin and pulling it taut to shape your pumpkin into segments, tie in a secure knot at the top.
Repeat step 1 twice more in equal segments (creating six segments in total).
Sew the pumpkin bottom of your pumpkin on the bottom using it to cover up where the yarn for your segments cross.
Attach the pumpkin stalk to the top of the pumpkin using it to cover up where the yarn for your segments cross.
Attach the tendrils alongside of the stalk on one side of the pumpkin.
Using the black felt cut out a face for your Jack o’Lantern using the photos as a guide. Then either glue or sew them into place.
And that’s it!
I hope you’ll let Jaunty Jack o’Lantern bring some crochet magic to your spooky season! If you liked this pattern, you can view a list of my other free patterns here.
Also please consider giving this pattern some love by favouriting or adding a comment 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 at no extra cost to you. This helps to cover the running cost of the website – thank you for your support.
Are you ready for some Halloween fun? I’m thrilled to introduce a boo’tiful project for this spooky season – meet Ghoulie the Ghost Cushion from Issue 112 of Crochet Now – he’s just ‘dying’ to party! Whether you’re gearing up for the biggest Halloween party of the year or just looking to add some festive charm to your home, Ghoulie is here to bring some playful, not-so-spooky vibes to your décor.
Ghoulie is no ordinary ghost. With his tall hat and friendly grin, he’s the perfect cushion for cosy Halloween nights in. While others may think Halloween is all about scares, Ghoulie’s approach is more about fun and festivity, he’s here to be the ‘life’ (or afterlife!) of the party. He’s got a mischievous twinkle in his eye, but rest assured, he’s as soft and cuddly as can be!
This year, Ghoulie is pulling out all the stops for the big Halloween bash. He’s decked out in his very own handmade ‘Boo’ bunting – his favourite accessory! The bunting adds just the right touch of Halloween spirit without going over the top, making it perfect for anyone who enjoys a mix of spooky and sweet. Can’t you just picture him at the party, proudly hanging out on the sofa or as the centrepiece of a fun-filled living room?
For Ghoulie I used some Yarnsmiths Create Super Chunky, which was a new yarn to me. It’s a very squishy super chunky weight yarn that’s made from 100% Acrylic in 100g (80m) balls which helps make Ghoulie ‘hauntingly’ cute and ‘boo-tifully’ soft!
Standing at 70cm /27.5 inches tall the only other things you will need for Ghoulie are;
Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party yourself or just want to bring a bit of the season into your home, Ghoulie makes a delightful addition. He’s more of a “friendly haunt,” making him great for family-friendly celebrations or those who prefer their Halloween with a touch of whimsy.
If you’re eager to get started on Ghoulie, you’ll find the full pattern in Issue 112 of Crochet Now. which is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines
If you make up Ghoulie I hope you’ll share any finished 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 crocheting, and here’s to a spook-tacular Halloween! 🎃👻 xx
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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.
Hello, my lovelies! Today I’m delighted to introduce the enchanting Jade the Witch, your newest project from Your Crochet & Knitting Magazine Issue 46. This bewitching little character is perfect for adding a touch of magic to your autumn crafting, whether you’re a seasoned crochet enthusiast or a beginner ready to cast your first spell with yarn and hook.
Jade is no ordinary witch; she’s a friendly and whimsical character who’s more into potion-making and herb-gathering than cackling and casting spells. With her pointed hat, flowing sparkly magenta hair, stripy tights, Jade is ready to take on the autumn season with charm and a dash of witchy flair.
Crafted with a mix of vibrant yarns, Jade is not only a delightful decoration but also a fantastic project to hone your skills. Standing at approximately 33 cm tall, she’s just the right size to sit on your shelf, desk, or as part of your Halloween display.
Jade might seem a bit complex with all her different elements, but by breaking it down into manageable steps, I’m sure you’ll be able to bring her to life with each stitch.
Your Crochet and Knitting magazine comes complete with an exclusive 3.5mm crochet hook, 3.5mm knitting needles, and the 6 balls of DK yarn you need to make Jade the Witch. Whether you’re planning to gift her to a Halloween loving friend or add her to your seasonal décor, this project is sure to be a hit. Issue 46 is available to buy from most supermarkets. Or if you miss the print version you can grab a digital version from www.craftstash.co.uk/books-magazines
I love seeing how your projects turn out! Once you’ve completed Jade, don’t forget to share her with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry.
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
Subscribe to the blog:
Please note that some of the links in my blog are affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase via these links, but the price you pay is not affected, thank you for your support.
2020 was rather a strange year wasn’t it, it was a year when many of the things we’d perhaps been looking forward to, like occasions or events had to be cancelled, and that includes one of my favourite places to visit – The Crochet Sanctuary.
Most of the Sanctuary dates of 2020 had to be postponed however, in-between lockdowns, there was one Sanctuary that I was able to attend in the October and it turned out to be a bit more than originally planned! When the lovely Lisa & Lynda asked me if I could be the stand in designer (instead of Den Dennis who was stuck in Amsterdam) of course I was happy to help. It made sense, I would have been attending anyway (as a guest) and I’m lucky enough to live about 40 minutes away from the venue.
So I put together a fun Halloween themed design which I’ve just realised I never got around to formatting to share with you – until now! Allow me to introduce the Sweet Treat Eaters; Lisa Lollipop and Lynda Liquorice!
The Sweet Treat Eaters are a pair of monsters that never miss a trick (or treat) when it comes to candy! They love it, and will often be found cramming as much into their mouths as they possibly can – these guys should defiantly be handled with scare!
These cute little monsters are a combination of storage and amigurumi pattern that would make a fun addition to Halloween or for a little (or big) monsters bedroom.
The pattern is now available, from all my usual pattern stores, for you to make your own monsters.
I used a combination of yarns for my monsters. I used Scheepjes Stone Washed XL for the main body and tail with a 5mm / US size H hook (so that works up quite quickly) then I used Scheepjes Catona, with a 3mm / US size approx. D3, hook in complimentary colours for the other features.
The pattern is 5 pages long and it’s written, as usual, in both UK and US terms. It was nice to see the folks at the Crochet Sanctuary who were both intermediate and beginners to amigurumi enjoying the pattern. Though if you are a beginner and would like to give this pattern a go you might want to familiarise yourself with working in rounds in the amigurumi style before you start.
If you fancy 25% off the pattern price just enter the coupon code: PUMPKINNICE on either Ravelry or Etsy until 31 October 2022 to save.
As always my time at the Crochet Sanctuary was wonderful weekend where I was able to catch up with old friends and make some new ones! If you are looking for a weekend of yarn, crochet and just pure wonderfulness then I can’t recommend the The Crochet Sanctuary enough! I’m looking forward to my next visit as a guest this October – I can’t wait!
If you like this pattern please give it a love, or leave a comment or review on the platform you got it from when you’ve made it up, as a small biz all support and shares are very much appreciated! I hope you’ll share any finished 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.
