Dragonfly River MAL | The Reveal & Pattern Release

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

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

As always it’s been an absolute delight to work with Kitey and his gorgeously coloured yarn, I love these collabs we do – it always provides me with an opportunity to work with gorgeous yarn which in turn makes the design process enjoyable too (slightly obsessed by the sparkle yarn this time round)!

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

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

I’m really pleased with how the design for this cowl turned out and working with the yarn was such a delight! I’m a big fan of slub yarn, because I love the texture it automatically creates, and the lovely dragonfly colourway, with that sparkle, was just wonderful! I think I kept being slightly annoying to my husband as I kept asking him to look at it twinkling in various situations, and it really was a delight to see those beautiful tonal green and blue colours coming through in the stitches.

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

Now that the MAL is over, I have listed the pattern in my usual pattern stores for you to make your own version of the The Dragonfly River Cowl.

Use two of your favourite skeins of handdyed yarn with a 3.5mm (US size E/4) hook – I can’t wait to see what colourways you use for your own unique projects. Or if you’d like to pick up this specific kit colourway, although the original version was sold out, it will be available again from Kitey from November as a dye to order.

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

We do hope that you’ve enjoyed this fun make-along, I know Kitey and I have thoroughly enjoyed it – in fact we’ve already made our plans for our Christmas-time make-along! All I’m going to say is that I’m already excited for it, it’s something completely different and it’s going to be a blast!

Make sure you are signed up to the blog (or my newsletter) and The Yarn Whisperer newsletter to make sure you are the first to know when the new collaboration project is revealed!

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

13Sep2022

I Like Crochet Magazine | Tilly the Pony

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

This morning, on the school run, I definitely felt that first bit of a chill in the air. It’s a sign that Autumn is on it’s way; but luckily I Like Crochet magazine have put together a lovely collection of seasonal patterns for you – this time with a definite nod to Equestrian chic! Which ties in nicely with the pattern I’ve got in the October 2022 issue – meet Tilly the Pony.

Brightly coloured leaves cover the ground which you kick in the air as you make your way down to the stables … and there you will find Tilly the Pony, with a soft mane that blows in the breeze and a big kissable nose, ready for a canter in the Autumn sunshine. Tilly is a sweet little pony amigurumi that will capture the hearts of adults and children alike.

I used Scheepjes Stonewashed (Sport Weight) for Tilly, in Moon Stone (801), Black Onyx (803) and Brown Agate (822) with a 3mm hook (closest US size D/3 or C/2).

If you’re not familiar with Scheepjes Stonewashed it’s a blended yarn made up from 22% acrylic and 78% cotton yarn that comes in 50g balls (130m / 142yds), it’s durable but soft and is available in 36 colours all associated with ‘gems and stones’. I’ve used it for lots of my designs as I love the stone washed look of the yarn and the stitch definition you get with the cotton blend – it’s perfect for amigurumi.

The only other things you will need for Tilly are 2 x 8mm black safety eyes, some toy stuffing and I used some cream coloured roving yarn for mane (though you could make your mane out of some more of the Moon Stone yarn).

I think that Tilly would make a great gift for any pony or horse lover, and could even be matched to a real life equine buddy – now that would be super cute!

I would suggest this amigurumi would a fun and easy introduction into toy making for a beginner crocheter. Everything is worked in the round, with a bit of simple shaping to create the perfect pony shape.

💕 SAVE TILLY THE PONY AMIGURUMI ON RAVELRY 💕

As well as my pony the October 2022 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBE you can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.

If you haven’t heard of I Like Crochet magazine before it’s a US bi-monthly digital magazine which is published by the creators of AllFreeCrochet.com. With it being a US publication patterns are written using US crochet terminology – if you are not sure how that differs you may find my post British vs. American Crochet Terms: What’s the difference? of use.

If you hook up the Tilly the Pony, 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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1Sep2022

Pattern Re-Release | Relaxing Ralph

Posted in Crochet, Designing, Getting Crafty, Independent Design, Pattern Release by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Well it’s only taken me a couple of years…but I’ve finally got around to sorting out my Relaxing Ralph pattern. And what prompted me is today (1 Sept) is Ginger Cat Appreciation Day, a fun holiday that honours the gingers of the feline world.

It put me in mind of little Ralph; who you may recognise as a pattern I designed in September 2018 for The Crochet Sanctuary (read about it here). He’s a sleepy little ginger kitty who loves nothing more than kicking back for a nap in his hammock (details on how to make his hammock is also included in the pattern).

Well at the time I was sure I’d released the pattern in my usual format, in UK and US terms, and with availability in each of my pattern stores – but it turns out that I’ hadn’t! However I’m now delighted to announce that I’ve rectified that situation, and you can now pick up the PDF pattern via the links below.

The pattern is 5 pages long and I’d suggest it’s a patterns suitable for anyone with a bit of experience of working in the round and in making amigurumi.

For my kitty I used 1 ball of Scheepjes Stonewashed XL (Aran/ Worsted Weight) in Jasper (Shade 849), 1 ball of Scheepjes Stonewashed (Sport Weight) in Moon Stone (Shade 801 and 1 ball of Scheepjes Catona (4ply / Fingering Weight) in Powder Pink (Shade 238) with a 4.5mm (US size 7) and a 3mm (Closest US size D/3 or C/2).

🐈 Add the pattern to your favourites on Ravelry 🐈

” Cats are connoisseurs of comfort.” ~ James Herriot

If you do make up a Relaxing Ralph I hope you will share pictures of your cat’s on socials using the hashtag #kcacouk so I can see and share your wonderful work.

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.

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1Sep2022

Free Pattern | Summer Lawn Granny Square

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

The official Granny Square Day might have passed, but as a granny square can be for any day I thought I’d share a free copy of one of the patterns I designed for Simply Crochet back in 2020. The pattern is called Summer Lawn and it’s a relatively easy block – perfect for beginners.

I used Rico Ricorumi for my blocks, with a 4mm hook (closest US size G) which is a DK (Light Worsted) weight 100% cotton yarn that I had in my stash. However this design would work equally well in any DK yarn or in fact with other fibres and yarn weights to make bigger or smaller blocks.

This is a fun summer block that would look great together in a blanket or as a component in a multi-square afghan, bag or cushion project. Like most motifs they are quick and satisfying to make and a great way to use up scraps.

🌻 SAVE THE SUMMER LAWN BLOCK ON RAVELRY 🌻

The Summer Lawn 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:

Summer Lawn Square

Yarn Required: 25g / 58m

Yarn Used in photos: Rico Ricorumi DK

YARN A – Tangerine (026)
YARN B – Saffron (063)
YARN C – Pistachio (047)

About the yarn: Rico Ricorumi DK; 8ply / Double Knit; 25g / 58m; 100% Cotton

Finished Size: 10cm width x 10cm high

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

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

You will also need:

Gauge: A single square motif measures 10cm² (3.9in²) using a 4mm hook

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.
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.

Pattern Notes:

How to surface crochet: start by attaching a slip knot to the back of the crochet area then from the front of the work, insert your hook into the stitch nearby and start working chain stitches on the surface of your crocheted area, continue to work in this way according to the design.
(…) any stitches in brackets work into one stitch or space.
*…* any stitches between * icon repeat as required

Pattern:

The ch3 at the beginning of each round counts as a tr throughout.

With YARN A

Ch4, ss to first ch to join into a ring.

Rnd 1 (RS): Ch-3, 11tr into the ring, ss to top of beginning ch-3 to join [12 sts]

Fasten off and weave in ends

Rnd 2: With YARN B join on RS with a ss to the top of any tr, ch3, 1tr in the same st as the beginning ch3, then work 2tr in each st around until end, ss to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. [24 sts]

Fasten off and weave in ends

Rnd 3: With YARN C join on RS with a ss in-between any tr of the previous rnd, ch3, 2tr in the same sp, * miss 3sts, 3tr in-between the next tr’s of the previous rnd, miss 3sts, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) in-between the next tr’s of the previous rnd *repeat from * twice more, miss 3sts, 3tr in-between the next tr’s of the previous rnd, miss 3sts, ss to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. [36sts + 4 x ch3-sps]

Rnd 4: Ch3, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) in the next sp, * 3tr in the next 2sps, (3tr, ch3, 3tr) * repeat from * twice more, 3tr in the next sp, 2tr in the last sp, ss to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. [48sts + 4 x ch3-sps]

Rnd 5: Ch3, 1tr in 3sts, (1tr, ch3, 1tr) in the next sp, * 1tr in 12sts, (1tr, ch3, 1tr) * repeat from * three times, 1tr in the next 8sts, ss to the top of the beginning ch3 to join. [56sts + 4 x ch3-sps]

Fasten off and weave in ends

Finishing

With YARN A surface crochet around the top of rnd 1
With YARN A surface crochet on top of two opposite sides of rnd 4
With YARN B surface crochet around the posts of rnd 5 on opposite sides to the YARN A

And that’s it, you’ve finished your lovely new motif!

If you enjoyed this pattern please give it a love, or leave a comment or review on the platform you got it from (e.g. as a project on Ravelry). I hope you’ll tag me too (@kcaco.uk on Instagram) using the hashtag #kcacouk or share your photos on social media (facebook, twitter or Pinterest) – I love to see what you make!

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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26Aug2022

Pattern Re-Release | Woodgreen Puppy

Posted in Crochet, Designing, Getting Crafty, Pattern Release by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Happy International Dogs Day! Today I’m able to share with you a fun puppy pattern; Parsley the Woodgreen Puppy!

You may recognise Parsley from a past collaboration with Deramores back in April 2021. With the closure of Deramores (in Feb 2022) I’ve been slowly working my way through any associated patterns to add to my pattern shops, however as this was a pattern was originally designed in collaboration with a charity it’s been a bit of a different task to sort out.

However I’m now absolutely delighted to announce that the lovely folks at LoveCrafts are going to host the pattern for the Woodgreen, The Animal Charity – with 100% of sales going to support pets looking for their forever homes!

Wood Green is a pet charity that makes a difference to the lives of pets and people across the UK. As a charity they help rehome pets into loving homes and also educate and supports pet owners, so that they can enjoy a mutually rewarding and happy relationship with their pets.

The charity helps thousands of dogs, cats and small pets, many who have been abandoned and neglected, to have a second chance at happiness – and no animals are ever turned away!

If you are a crafter you can help support this charity by creating the Parsley the puppy with the purchase of the digital pattern (approx. £3.60 / $4.24 at time of posting).

💚 You can download the puppy pattern here 💚

For my original puppy I used Deramores Studio DK in Ebony, Oatmeal, White, Chocolate and Peridot with a 3.25mm (US size D/3) hook, however you could easily substitute with Paintbox Simply DK in Pure Black (101), Taupe (75), Champagne White (102), Lime Green (128) and Coffee Bean (110). The finished result is a lovely cuddly puppy that you can make for yourself or a loved one.

💚 Add the pattern to your favourites on Ravelry 💚

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself ~ Henry Wheeler Shaw

If you do make up a puppy I hope you will share pictures of your pup’s on socials using the hashtags #kcacouk and #LoveCrafts so we can share your wonderful work.

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.

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15Aug2022

Simply Crochet Magazine | Granny Square Day 2022

Posted in Afghan Square, Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Hooray, hooray, it’s granny square day! A wonderful celebration that brings together our fabulous hooky community in a showcase of creative crochet!

If you’ve not heard about Granny Square day before it’s an international online celebration on instagram which this year falls on Monday 15 August 2022. Granny Square Day was started several years ago by US crocheter Susan Regalia, who recognised that Instagram’s grid format could be used to replicate the block arrangement of a classic granny square blanket online. Others soon joined in the fun and Granny Square Day was born! Simply Crochet magazine then took over the reins of Granny Square day in 2018.

Simply Crochet is thrilled to be celebrating a 4^th year hosting this huge Instagram event resulting in the BIGGEST VIRTUAL CROCHET BLANKET IN THE WORLD! All you have to do is hook, snap and share! All Granny Squares use #grannysquareday2022 and all Granny Square related projects use #grannysquaremakes2022

As previous years Simply Crochet the latest issue of the magazine (Issue 126) comes with a very special bonus pattern booklet. You can get really creative with the ‘A year of Granny Squares’ pattern booklet, featuring 52 brand new designs – that’s one for every week of the year! And I’m really excited to say that you can find two new granny square blocks by me inside. You can actually spy one of them on the front cover!

The first design is the closest to a traditional granny square, it’s called ‘Daisy Daisy’ and features a little daisy on a lawn of green grass with a pretty border. It’s been classed as an easy peasy design – perfect for beginners.

For the granny square purists out there I tried to feature some of the customary granny square clusters in each of the designs. Though I also wanted to play on the traditional and come up with something fresh and new. I really like how this block turned out, it feels quite appropriate for a Spring / Summer project.

❤️ SAVE THE ‘DAISY DAISY’ SQUARE ON RAVELRY ❤️

In the supplement the blocks range in skill level; from the more simple to getting a bit more involved and my second design has been grouped in the slightly more tricky range – but I’d say it’s still an easy eough square for advanced beginners. It’s called ‘Rainbow Burst’ designed in part because I simply can’t resist a bit of a rainbow.

❤️ SAVE THE ‘RAINBOW BURST’ SQUARE ON RAVELRY ❤️

I used Rico Ricorumi for these blocks, with a 3mm hook (closest US size C/2 or D/3) which is a DK (Light Worsted) weight 100% cotton yarn that I had in my stash, but the designs would work equally well in any DK yarn or in fact with other fibres and yarn weights to make bigger or smaller blocks.

To me granny squares are nothing to do with ‘grandmas’ – they are just a super fun way to show how fun and versatile crochet can be! There’s something for everyone in the Simply Crochet squares and motifs supplement from more traditional looking squares to modern contemporary designs.

Simply Crochet issue 126 is available in most supermarkets and newsagents and digitally at www.pocketmags.com.

My Squares:

If you’re new to my blog you might not know that I’ve got several block patterns that are either fun square motifs or use the granny stitch in a more traditional design. Some are available to purchase from my pattern stores (links below) and some are free patterns available here on the blog.

Check out the links below for more Granny Square fun! Please note that most links are to Ravelry as that’s the most comprehensive list of all my patterns – not all squares are currently available from other sources. Free squares will link directly to my blog. Sizes of squares also differ, please see finished square size for full details.

Poppin Spades (FREE)	Sherbert Star Granny (FREE)	Autumn Turn (FREE)	Perfect Puff Pillow (FREE)
Wish Upon a Star 10″ (FREE)	Mod-Spot Block (FREE)	Encompass Me (FREE)	Granny’s Cabin (FREE)
Granny Likes Diamonds (FREE)	Granny Likes Popcorn 10″ (FREE)	Circle your Granny 10″ (FREE)	Tri Tonal Traditional Granny (FREE)
Bubblegum Pop Granny 10″ (FREE)	Half and Half Granny (FREE)	Bavarian Beauty 12″ (FREE)	Moroccan Window 12″ (FREE)
Humming Bird	Pumpkin	Blooming Flower	Solomon’s Cross
Christmas Bauble	Thanksgiving Turkey	Gingerbread Man	Santa Square
Reindeer Square	Jolly Clown	Mini Filet Cross (FREE)	Octagon Garden
Shy Violet	Eagle Owl	Russian Doll	Sunset Square
Union Jack Square	Spring Trellis	Amerindic Square	Robin Square
Easter / Flower Basket	Polar Bear Square	Sunflower Square	Pin Wheel Square
Daisy Chain Square

And if you want even more patterns the list below are designs I’ve made with ‘squares’ or granny clusters whether they be granny squares or motifs.

Solstice Garden Wrap	Mini Meditative Mandala (FREE)	Stitch Story Blanket	Superbly Simple Baby Blanket (FREE)
Daisy Chain Flourish Blanket	River Rose Pillow	Chocolate Box Twist Baby Blanket	Infinity Blanket
Everything is Cool and Groovyghan	Elephants on Parade Baby Blanket	Spot the Giraffe Blanket	Rainbow Baby Poncho

Dear Ewe Granny Square Day Sale!

And to celebrate Granny Square Day further, over at Dear Ewe, we’re holding a flash sale with 20% discount on our chart themed items. Check out the Dear Ewe Blog post for all the details, or go straight to the shop and use code: GSD22 at the checkout – sale ends Thursday 18 August.

If you hook up any of the squares I hope you’ll share your photos with me on social media (facebook, twitter or instagram) or as a project on Ravelry – I love to see what you make!

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

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29Jul2022

Free Pattern | Happy Bee Keyring

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

To bee or not to bee, that is the question? I’ll say definitely to bee as I’ve got a brand new FREE pattern winging it’s way over to you today. Allow me to introduce the Happy Bee Key Ring!

Now I know there are a few bee key ring patterns already in existence, but you can never have too much choice can you, so I’m adding my little bee into the hive because he’s meant to bee made and who can resist a good free-bee!

For my little bee I used Scheepjes Catona which is 100% cotton 4ply (fingering) yarn with a 3mm hook (closest US size D/3). I used three shades; Lemon (280), Jet Black (110) and Snow White (106), and a smidgeon of Tulip (222) – and I didn’t use that much really, in fact if you used the 25g (62m / 68yds) you’d probably be able to make a small swarm!

They are incredibly quick and satisfying and sort of addictive to make, sometimes it’s nice to have a fairly fast project to make isn’t it for that quick win feeling.

🐝 SAVE THE HAPPY BEE KEYRING ON RAVELRY 🐝

I made several bees to go with, amongst other things, some homemade honey comb ( also known as Cinder Toffee) for some end of year teacher gifts. The honeycomb was actually easier (on the second try) to make than I thought. The secret is to make sure your sugar is hot enough! I used this recipe here if you are interested, and I can confirm it is rather delicious broken into shards and scattered over ice-cream.

The Happy Bee Keyring 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:

Happy Bee Keyring

Yarn Required: 10g / 25m

Yarn Used in photos: Scheepjes Catona

YARN A – Lemon (280)
YARN B – Jet Black (110)
YARN C – Snow White (106)
YARN D – Tulip (222) – small amount

About the yarn: Scheepjes Catona; 4ply / Fingering Weight; 10g / 25m; 100% Cotton

Finished Size: 5cm (2”) long

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

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

You will also need:

Gauge: 5dc = 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): 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.

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 . Use a stitch marker to help mark the beginning of each row.

Pattern:

Body

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

Rnd 2: [2dc in each st] around. 12sts

Rnd 3: [1dc in the first st, 2dc in the next st] around. 18 sts

Rnd 4: [1dc in next 2sts, 2dc in the next st] around. 24sts

Rnd 5: 1dc in each st around.

Fasten off YARN A, attach YARN B to the top of any st;

Rnd 6: 1dc in each st around.

Rnd 7: [1dc in next 4sts, dc2tog] around. 20sts

Fasten off YARN B, attach YARN A to the top of any st;

Rnd 8 – 9: 1dc in each st around.

Fasten off YARN A, attach YARN B to the top of any st;

Rnd 10 – 11: 1dc in each st around. Fasten off YARN B;

· Add eyes between rnds 4 – 5 approx. 6sts apart

· With black embroidery thread embroider on a mouth over rnd 2 (using photos as a guide)

· With YARN D embroider on some cheeks just below each eye (using photos as a guide

Attach YARN A to the top of any st;

Rnd 12: [1dc in next 4sts, 2dc in the next st] around. 24sts

Rnd 13: 1dc in each st around.

Fasten off YARN A, attach YARN B to the top of any st;

Rnd 14: 1dc in each st around.

· Start to stuff; continuing to stuff as you go

Rnd 15: [1dc in the next 2sts, dc2tog] around. 18 sts

Rnd 16: [1dc in the next st, dc2tog] around. 12 sts

Rnd 17: [dc2tog] six times. 6 sts

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

Wings – Make 2

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

Rnd 2: [2dc in each st] around. 12sts

Rnd 3: [1dc in the first st, 2dc in the next st] around. 18 sts

Fasten off but leave yarn tail for sewing onto the body.

FINISHING

Add key ring slip ring to the top centre of the body (approx. rnd 9)
Attach the wings, either side of the key ring slip ring, so that the wings point upwards (using the photos as a guide)

And that’s it, you’ve finished your lovely new key ring!

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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15Jul2022

I Like Crochet Magazine | Briar Blanket

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

In the sunny days of summer it might seem strange to count down the days until autumn – but it’s always nice to get ahead for the next season (especially as crochet takes time!). In the August issue of I Like Crochet magazine they’ve included 15 First Fall patterns and I’m excited to say that my second pattern, the Briar Blanket, is included in this section.

Briar, meaning “thorny bush of wild roses” is the name of the blanket filled with textured stitches and rose-inspired hues of deep maroon and soft taupe. This chunky blanket, with its large feature tassels, would make a perfect addition to style up your bed – or to keep as a throw on your sofa getting ready for when those nights turn cooler.

I used the delectable Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky for this blanket, which was a new yarn to me, and is sooo nice! Plump and squishy and available in 20 different colours, Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky is a heavy weight yarn that works up quickly for thick and cushy projects.

Spun from Peruvian wool, the yarn is strong and durable with excellent stitch definition. It’s classed as a bulky (chunky weight) yarn which is 100% wool and comes in 100g hanks (137yds / 125m).

The shades I used for the blanket were Currant 28211(A, 6 balls), Gosling 28214 (B, 12 balls) and Fedora 28212 (C, 4 balls) with a 6mm (US size J/10) hook (which is amongst the suggested hook sizes).

Throws are perfect for keeping you toasty in front of the tv or reading a book in bed. Make in three muted complementary colours for a chic solution or go bold with some bright shades to update an old chair.

I would suggest this intricate blanket is an intermediate pattern, that feels sumptuous and decadent made in lux yarn, and that would make a cosy addition to your summer-to-autumn home décor.

💕 SAVE THE BRIAR BLANKET ON RAVELRY 💕

As well as my wrap the August 2022 edition features loads of lovely seasonal patterns and a range of interesting articles. If you SUBSCRIBE you can get the magazine straight to your desktop or iPad as well as access to lots of other extra crochet bonus material.

If you hook up the Briar Blanket, 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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12Jul2022

I Like Crochet Magazine | Sandstone Shawl

Posted in Crochet, Crochet Accessories, Inspiration, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah, Yarn by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

The August issue of I Like Crochet magazine is here and I’m super excited to say I’ve got TWO patterns in this edition. I’m rather proud of both designs, so I thought I’d write a separate blog post about each of them so I can tell you about them properly. First up is a crocheted wrap design called the Sandstone Shawl.

The Sandstone Shawl is an accessory which utilises yarn that varies in thickness to achieve a textured and lacy look. Tassels added to the centre of the shawl add a visual interest alongside open diamond motifs – and I love, love, LOVE how it turned out!

I used King Cole Opium for this shawl which I’d not used before but which I wanted to try as it just looks different and unusual. I think it’s no secret that I’m a bit in love with slubby textured yarns at the moment, especially after working the Whispers of the Sea Wrap and the Mellow Mallow Shawl.

If you were looking for a commercial type of slub yarn then I’d suggest this yarn could come close. It’s classed as a fashion yarn which has thick and thin sections along it’s length, a bit like slub yarn. When it’s worked up it creates such a beautiful textured mixture of lace and opaque – perfect for both summer and winter projects.

I’m a huge fan of textured crochet pieces and the beauty of this yarn is that it creates the texture for you – did I say yet how much I LOVE how the yarn worked up for this design!

King Cole Opium is 54% cotton, 42% acrylic and 4% Polyamide yarn and comes in 100g balls (273yds / 250m). The shade I used for the wrap was actually called Sandstone (1085) which is partially where the name of the wrap came from. My original inspiration for this shawl came from sandstone clay formations which are full of wonderful ridges and curves – so the name and colour of the yarn shared a bit of a serendipitous moment!

King Cole Opium is actually available in 7 other different colours and I used 6 balls in total to create a nice large wrap (approx. 79″ long x 22” wide / 200cm long x 56cm wide). The suggested hook size for this yarn is a 6mm (US size J/10) though I used a 4.5mm hook (US size 7) as I wanted my lacy sections to not be too oversized.

I would suggest this is a pattern that adventurous beginners would enjoy, the Sandstone Shawl is a trendy yet practical shawl with a nice pattern repeat which is easy to follow once you get used to it.

Make in beautiful natural tones for a chic outfit solution for the season ahead, it’s a great statement piece for layering. The textured yarn is light enough to be airy and yet still feel cosy enough to snuggle into as the seasons turn colder.

💕 SAVE THE SANDSTONE SHAWL ON RAVELRY 💕

If you hook up the Sandstone Shawl, 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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23May2022

LGC Knitting & Crochet Magazine | Red Squirrel and Baby Mobile

Posted in Amigurumi, Crochet, Magazine, Pattern Release, Tah-Dah by Keep Calm and Crochet On UK

Are you looking for some new summer favourites? Well Let’s Get Crafting Knitting and Crochet magazine have several fun options that you might want to look into – including a couple of new patterns from me; and I’m delighted to say that my Red Squirrel is issue 141’s cover star!

Front Cover image of issue 141 of Let's Get Crafting magazine. — © Let’s Get Crafting magazine – Issue 141

My little red squirrel, with his stripy hat and cute little bowler hat were very fun to make. I used every colour in the yarn kit (which comes with the magazine) and I especially enjoyed using the variegated yarn to make the tail – colourwork has never been easier!

Colourful red squirrel with stripy jumper and mini bowler hat featured in issue 141 of Let's Get Crafting magazine. — © Let’s Get Crafting magazine – Issue 141

This fun amigurumi would make a great gift for an animal lover, or how about a cute decoration in a woodland themed nursery? Got the magazine and going to make him later, then save the pattern to your favourites on Ravelry at the link below.

❤️ SAVE THE RED SQUIRREL PATTERN ON RAVELRY ❤️

Speaking of nurseries, my second pattern in issue 141 is a bead and ball mobile. I have a bit of a thing about wood, I love it! So for this project I mixed crochet with some wooden beads and a wooden hoop, with some crochet balls, in several different sizes, hanging off with embroidery thread.

Crochet ball and wooden bead baby mobile as featured in issue 141 of Let's Get Crafting magazine. — © Let’s Get Crafting magazine – Issue 141

The mobile is very easy to make and would make a great beginner project, in fact the whole process of making up the mobile was very enjoyable. And if you don’t have little ones to make it for how about making it for your craft room or conservatory!

❤️SAVE THE B ALL BABY MOBILE ON RAVELRY ❤️

As usual the magazine comes with a yarn pack, which this time includes six different yarns, and includes the relevant size crochet hook (3.75mm) and knitting needles for the projects inside.

There are lots of other fab patterns in this month’s edition including a sweet alpaca, a very cute knitted hippo and a pair of sweet knitted and crocheted unicorns!

Cover image of projects featured in issue 141 of Let's Get Crafting magazine. — © Let’s Get Crafting magazine – Issue 141

LGC Knitting & Crochet Magazine is available in major supermarkets and newsagents across the UK or if you’re not able to get to the shops right now you can get a digital version of the mag from Pocketmags (the free cover gifts are not available via this digital subscription).

I hope you’ll share any WIP or finished project 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, keep calm and crochet on my friends xx

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